Life as it should be

Transcription

FEB/MAR 2015
www.elgounamag.com
Life as it should be
47 | El Gouna Magazine
Feb - Mar 2015 | 3
Editor’s Note
Contents FEB/MAR 2015
Dear Readers,
6. On the shelf: Human and Plant Life
A vital element of the spirit and culture of El Gouna is the
sense of adventure shared by residents and visitors young
and old. In this issue we profile two individuals with the
courage to follow their dreams and push themselves to the
limit. The first, Galal Zekry Chatila, recently passed through
El Gouna on his epic 7000-km bicycle journey through Egypt
(p. 18). The second, 13-year-old Indigo Bolandrini, inspires
and amazes with her skills as a diver (p. 12).
Creativity is also an integral part of the El Gouna ethos, as
ongoing artistic endeavors in town demonstrate. Over the
latter half of 2014, four world-class street artists painted
murals on walls across the Downtown area (p. 38), and Art
Café Gouna continues to foster creativity with the many
activities and classes it offers (p. 22).
Educational, healthcare, and charitable services in town
continue to expand. The hospital has recently undergone
major updates (p.30), and TUB El Gouna faculty and students
continue to carry out ground-breaking research (p. 36). In
addition, Egypt’s newest Rotary Club was recently founded
in El Gouna, welcoming business people and professionals
serious about making a difference in the local community
and beyond (p. 34).
We hope you enjoy our coverage of this wonderful town and
its amazing people,
The El Gouna Magazine Team
8. Restaurant: La Scala
12. Profile: Indigo
14. Events: Christmas 2014
18. Adventure: Galal Zekri-Chatila
22. Art: Art Cafe
26. Events: New Year’s Eve
30. Health: El Gouna Hospital
34. Feature: Rotary Club
36. Environment: Micro Climate
40. Art: Street Art
44. Updates
46. Guide
47. Dine Around
Street Art in El Gouna
Managing Director
Maryse Raad
Copy Editor
Laurie B. Pierce
Contributors
Georgina Cole / Jenny Cooper /
Yaisa Nio
Creative Designer
Baher Nemr
Production Controller
Gehan Saleh
Advertising Manager
Ghada Youssef
Financial Manager
Ramez Farouk
El Gouna Magazine is produced by Icon Communications, S.A.E.
© All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is strictly prohibited
without prior consent from the publisher.
We welcome your comments at editor@elgounamag.com
+20 273 53 486, 487 or +2 012 2749 3617
Read online at www.elgounamag.com
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BOOKS
On The Shelf
Human life, plant life
Text: Laurie B. Pierce
Butterfly Wings
Mohamed Salmawy, Raphael Cohen, trans., AUC Press, 2014
Butterfly Wings is the latest novel by the well-known Egyptian
litterateur Mohamed Salmawy, who in addition to writing a
series of highly-acclaimed plays, short stories, and novels, is
also active in journalistic circles and serves as president for both
the Egyptian Writer’s Union and the Arab Writer’s Union.
The novel was first published in Arabic in 2011, and the present
edition was translated into English by Raphael Cohen. Butterfly
Wings is set against the backdrop of the Egyptian revolution that
ousted President Hosni Mubarak. The book begins with a scene
in which Doha, a fashion designer unhappily married to a senior
figure in the Mubarak regime, is stuck in a traffic jam caused by a
demonstration in Tahrir. She calls her husband, who pulls strings
with the police officers controlling the crowd, and Doha makes it
to the airport in time to travel abroad to showcase her designs.
By chance, Doha encounters Ashraf, a political dissident who
opposes everything her husband stands for. Opposites attract,
and the remainder of the novel tells the stories of these two
characters and the entwining of their disparate lives. A third
character, Ayman, also escapes the chaos of Cairo as he travels
a winding road to Tanta, where he seeks the answer to a troubling
personal question. As the novel progresses, the three main
characters are drawn back into the events of the revolution, their
personal trials and quests subsumed into the social tumult. They
are forced to make sense of the upheaval in their own lives and
in the life of their homeland, and the narrative culminates in a
conclusion that encompasses joy and sorrow, gain and loss.
Life persists in the face of upheaval and despite the ravages of time, and this issue’s book
picks highlight the resilience of plant and human life. Rachel Sussman’s The Oldest Living
Things in the World is a beautiful photographic record of 30 living plant specimens ranging
from 2000 to 500,000 years old. Mohamed Salmawy’s novel Butterfly Wings, skillfully
translated by Raphael Cohen, is a testament to human life and the ability of men and
women to survive changes in their personal lives and in the life of their homeland.
All books reviewed are available from www.amazon.com
The Oldest Living Things in the World
Rachel Sussman, University of Chicago Press, 2014
Rachel Sussman traveled to all seven continents over the course
of a decade to capture the images in this fascinating book. Each
of the organisms she photographed is at least 2000 years old,
and one—the Siberian Actinobacteria—dates back nearly half a
million years. The book captures 30 species in all, ranging from
Antarctic mosses to the Giant Sequoia of California.
The Oldest Living Things in the World is a testament to the
staggeringly different forms life takes, the remarkable resilience
of plant species, and the hardiness and flat-out luck it takes
for individual specimens to weather the ravages of time. Some
specimens survive out of sheer size, like the 106-acre root structure
that makes up the Pando colony of quaking aspen trees in Utah,
USA. Each of the tens of thousands of trunks rising upwards from
that root system is genetically identical and shares an 80,000-year
history. The underground forests of South Africa are even more
captivating. Several different species of large plants, including the
Dwarf Mobala, have adapted to the threat of bush fires by growing
almost entirely underground, with only a few leaves—the tip of a
forest canopy—pushing above the surface of the soil.
The trees in the book are glorious, from the impossibly thick
baobab trees of South Africa to a gnarled olive tree has lived
on an isolated corner of the Greek island of Crete for millennia.
Other plants have a stranger beauty. The 3000-year-old Llareta
plant of Chile looks like a globulous, neon space creature, and the
impossibly long, wavy leaves of the Welwitschia of Namibia are
brilliant amidst a harsh, white-sand landscape.
Of Related Interest
Animal Architecture
Ingo Arndt, Harry N Abrams, 2014
The Natural World Close-Up
Giles Sparrow, Firefly Books, 2011
The Lanterns of the King of Galilee
Ibrahim Nasrallah, AUC Press, 2014
House of the Wolf
Ezzat El Kamhawi, AUC Press, 2013
Sussman’s photographs and accompanying essays reveal the
strength and persistence of plant life, but also its fragility. Several
of the specimens she traveled to photograph have since died,
including a 3500-year-old Bald Cypress tree in Florida known
as the Senator, which was set ablaze in an act of carelessness.
“Extreme longevity can lull us into a false sense of permanence,”
says Sussman. “We fall into a quotidian reality devoid of longterm thinking, certain that things which have been here ‘forever’
will remain, unchanging.” None of these specimens will be with
us forever, and nearly all face greater threats than ever before—
threats brought on by climate change and human encroachment.
But for now these oldest living things remain with us as beautiful,
enduring monuments of unseen eras long ago. //
Feb - Mar 2015 | 7
RESTAURANT
LA SCALA
Fine Italian dining in El Gouna
Text and photography: Yaisa Nio
Abundant and
delicious Italian food
in the stylish Abu
Tig Marina has
been the key
to La Scala’s
success over
the years.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 9
Until a few years ago, only opera music
was played in the background at La Scala
Restaurant. Patrons could close their eyes
and be transported to the opera house in
Milan, from which the restaurant got its
name. The music playlist at La Scala has
since diversified, but the food remains as
outstanding as ever.
My dining companions and I decided
to try longstanding favorites as well as
new arrivals. First, we nibbled on the
complimentary home-baked bread and
dips, but diners should heed my warning
to go easy on this tasty Aperitivo, because
the servings at La Scala are anything but
skimpy.
Traditional Italian meals begin with an
Aperitivo, an alcoholic drink with small
snacks. Then comes the Antipasto,
generally in the form of cold cuts,
bruschette or crostini. Next is the Primo,
a hot dish and typically pasta or soup.
The Secondo is the real main course,
consisting of meat or fish served with
a Contorno (side dish of vegetables) or
Insalata. For big eaters, Formaggi e Frutta
(cheese and fruits) are served according
to region and season. Finally comes the
Dolce (dessert), and last but not least, the
Caffè, and the Digestivo, imperative at this
point to ease digestion.
For Primi, we had the classic Vitello
Tonnato and the Spaghetti Marinara, which
old-fashioned Italians would probably call
Spaghetti con i Frutti di Mare because
Spaghetti Marinara normally comes
with only tomatoes, olive oil, garlic and
oregano. This one was creamy, delicious,
and copiously filled with seafood. The
Linguine al Salmone, new to the menu,
was delicate yet flavorful, and it ended
up being one of our favorites. The star of
the starters, however, was the Spaghetti
all’Aragosta, which perfectly balanced the
flavor of lobster and tomato sauce. The
entrée, which must be ordered in advance,
was nothing less than succulent.
The La Scala menu, although not
traditional in the strictest sense, has
attracted Egyptian, Italian, and other
foreign guests alike since the opening
of the restaurant in 2003. The large
blackboard menu on the façade of the
establishment is a landmark at the
marina, and some dishes on it are so
popular that they will never be erased.
The arrival of Chef Luciano in October
2013, however, brought a few alterations.
He has introduced seasonal specialties
like the Dolcetti di Natale (Christmas
dessert) as well as new permanent dishes
like the Risotto ai Quatro Formaggi.
After the scrumptious starters, we sat
back for a breather and enjoyed the
atmosphere of the marina. Sitting outside
is always the best choice at La Scala, even
in winter, when gas heaters are lit to keep
the guests warm.
The Secondi that followed were on par
with the starters. The all-time favorite,
Osso Buco Gremolata, is a meal in its
own right. The two huge pieces of veal
shank came with pasta on the side instead
of the traditional Risotto. The meat was
braised to tenderness, and the Gremolata
(condiment made of lemon zest, garlic and
parsley) gave the dish a tasty zestiness.
The Filetto di Manzo (beef tenderloin) with
Gorgonzola and the classic Tagliata di
Manzo (tenderloin cut in thin slices) with
balsamic and rocket salad were served
with potato wedges and grilled vegetables
as sides. Both were grilled exactly to our
taste, melting in the mouth. However,
the Moscardine in Umido con Patate, a
newcomer to the menu, was the winner of
the evening. The subtle taste of the tender
baby octopus was beautifully enhanced by
the tomato sauce.
Luciano refused to let us go without
presenting us with a few desserts,
including the classic Tiramisu as well as
his newest addition, the Meringata, which
was drowned in an excellent chocolate
sauce. We did not regret trying them.
With starters averaging around LE 60,
mains around LE 140 (excluding tax
and services) and standard alcoholic
beverages available, La Scala will always
provide a sumptuous and satisfying
evening out. //
La Scala is located at Abu Tig Marina
and is open daily from 7 pm. For more
information or reservations, call 77933.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 11
PROFILE
Child of the Ocean Depths
Indigo Bolandrini’s passion for diving
Text: Jenny Cooper
Photography: Courtesy Indigo Bolandrini
In the first of a two-part series featuring some of El Gouna’s
youngest world-class athletes, our magazine interviews Indigo
Bolandrini, a 13-year-old with an outsized commitment to diving.
Our next issue will feature Khaled “Kimo” Mahmoud, the under-12
world champion in freestyle kitesurfing.
From the time she was a very young child, Indigo Bolandrini
spent most of her vacations here in El Gouna, where her parents
are the owners of Pier 88 and Club 88. “We’ve had a home here
since 2001,” says Indigo’s mother, Tina, “and each time we
returned to the UK after spending a holiday here, Indigo would
push us to move to El Gouna full time.”
While the family was here for the Christmas holidays in 2013,
Indigo completed her Advanced Course in diving, making new
friends in the process. Her pleas to stay in El Gouna reached a
fever pitch, and she managed to convince her 10-year-old twin
brothers, Memphis and Rocco, that it was time to move. “Thanks
to Indigo,” says Tina, “we finally moved here permanently.”
At the time of writing, Indigo has completed 13 specialties and
has logged over 200 dives. Among her favorites are the reef
at Abu Nuhas and the wreck of the Carnatic, which she loves
because of the many nudibranchs found there. “One of the
biggest highlights was when I jumped in to find five dolphins,”
says Indigo. “Two stayed with me the whole dive, ignoring
everybody else and imitating everything I did until I had to end
the dive.” Indigo has also dived the wreck of the Thistlegorm
twice, and she recently became the youngest diver to dive the
Rosalie Moller.
Indigo and her brothers started at El Gouna International
School at the beginning of the 2014/2015 school year, and
things are going well so far. “It’s more free and open than my
previous school in the UK,” she says. “Most of my friends here
dive and kite. I’m a beach kid. I like walking around in shorts
with my hair a bit messy!”
When asked how she ensures that her daughter balances
diving with her school work, Tina explains that she doesn’t
intervene too much and trusts Indigo to get her work done. On
weekends Indigo is usually up early for a full day of diving, but
she takes her school work to do on board and also works early
in the morning on weekdays before school. She is a responsible
student, Tina notes, and she always hands her work in on time.
Like most children at EGIS, Indigo is multilingual, fluent in
English and Danish. She is also learning French and Arabic.
Indigo has had a passion for diving for most of her short life.
Even when she was too young to try the sport, she knew she
wanted to pursue it, and when she was old enough, she took
courses with a friend, becoming a PADI Junior Open Water
Diver in August 2013. She hasn’t looked back since. Indigo is
now part of the close knit diving community in El Gouna, and
she counts many divers as her friends.
Indigo’s instructor at Orca Divers, Mostafa El Shokaby,
convinced her to do the Advanced Open Water Course.
Improving one’s diving skills requires practice and knowledge,
and Indigo reads diving magazines and instructional books
and manuals to progress in her sport. After completing the
Advanced Course at the end of 2013, she returned to school in
the UK before returning to El Gouna at half term in February
to complete her Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response
Courses as well as her Navigation and Peak Performance
Buoyancy specialties. On returning to the UK she completed
her Drysuit specialty, which allows her to dive in cold water.
Back in El Gouna again in April, she also completed the Nitrox
and Night Diver specialties, bringing her number of specialties
to five and earning her the Junior Master Scuba Diver
qualification. At the age of 12, Indigo was one of the youngest
divers in the world to achieve this qualification.
Junior divers have a diving depth limit of 25 meters, which
increases to 40 meters when they turn 15. Looking ahead,
Indigo would like to become a technical diver, but that must
wait until she is 18. Meanwhile, she dreams of diving the
infamous Elphinstone reef near Marsa Alam. Over the long term
Indigo has ambitions to pursue underwater photography. She
currently shoots with a GoPro camera and is saving for a bigger
underwater camera.
Indigo also loves kiting, though she admits that she enjoys the
less competitive nature of diving. When not directly engaged in a
water sport, she can be found at Orca helping out after school or
on the dive boat on weekends. She clearly loves life in El Gouna,
and her fearless spirit is a bright addition to our community. ” //
For more information about diving and PADI courses, contact
any of the dive schools here in El Gouna (listings are found in the
back of this magazine). Additional information can be found at
www.PADI.com
Feb - Mar 2015 | 13
EVENTS
Christmas
2014
-?5>7
Text and Photography: Georgina Cole
The festive season began early in El Gouna, with
community events setting the stage for the glittery
holiday parties and gala dinners that followed.
The first of many Christmas bazaars was held at Blue Moon
Animal Sanctuary on Friday, December 5th. The animal shelter
on the desert road to Hurghada was transformed into a winter
wonderland of snowmen and Christmas trees as El Gouna
residents raised funds to care for stray cats and dogs. The
season of goodwill continued with residents collecting dozens of
warm blankets for distribution in poor areas of Hurghada, where
they will help keep orphans and single mothers with young
children warm during the cold season.
Christmas trees went up all over town, including a unique,
environmentally-friendly tree created by Art Café for Pier 88
restaurant. The tree was constructed out of 350 recycled plastic
bottles from El Gouna Recycling Plant and finished off with
white flashing lights, a white bottle cap star on top, and a snowy
dusting of white paint.
El Gouna International School held its Christmas Bazaar on
Friday the 12th. The school’s Astro Turf playing field was turned
into a mini track for electric cars and bikes, much to the delight
of the youngest children. The school choir performed on stage,
and busy stalls tempted visitors with Christmas gifts and
goodies. New EGIS principal Phil Neild oversaw the event, which
gave him the opportunity to introduce himself to the community.
Neild is joined in El Gouna by his two children and wife Sarah,
who is the head of Primary International.
On the following day, the German Hotel School in El Bustan
took its turn welcoming the Christmas season. It was the first
time the school had held such an event, and tables were set up
in the courtyard offering gifts, clothes, plants, wood carvings,
and jewellery. Salads, BBQ sausages, and sweet deserts
were available for hungry visitors to purchase at the event, all
prepared by the proud and enthusiastic students.
Later the same day, the Aurora Club launched an art exhibition
organised by resident Sarah El Sawi. The event, entitled “Women
by the Sea,” was the second art exhibition El Sawi has headed up
in El Gouna. The eight artists displayed their work at a cocktail
reception on Saturday, December 13th, at Aurora Lounge
Bar. The setting fit the theme perfectly, and guests enjoyed
complimentary champagne and canapés by the water’s edge.
Arts & Fleas organised a third edition of its popular carnival,
hosting a Christmas bazaar at Cheeky Monkeys playground
in Abu Tig Marina. Sixty vendors offered gifts, delicious food,
and plenty of fun and entertainment for the whole family. The
event was held on December 18th and 19th, and the large stage
featured displays of Zumba dance classes, a Brazilian martial
arts exercise routine called Capoeira, and a popular belly dance
performance by teacher Filip Vanden Eeden. As darkness fell on
the second day, the Christmas lights began to sparkle and Santa
Claus appeared, throwing sweets to the crowd that had settled
around the stage for the much-anticipated grand raffle. Once
again the local businesses responded by generously donating a
wonderful array of prizes.
The shortest day and longest night of the year were marked by a
winter solstice celebration at the Dawar El Omda Hotel. The new
age studio Ab-soul-em set up tables offering sparkly designer
outfits, glamorous bags and jewellery, and pampering treats to
ensure everyone looked their best for the holidays. On the following
afternoon, guests were in for a treat at the Steigenberger Golf
Resort, which invited everyone to help eat the biggest strawberry
cake ever made in the Red Sea area. Fresh and juicy Egyptian
strawberries glistened in the sun as the 32-meter sponge cake was
set up by an army of chefs along the length of the swimming pool.
Christmas Eve arrived, and El Gouna Church in Bustan held a
German language service led by Pfarrer Günter Wagner at 4
pm. Afterwards the fabulous gala evenings began at El Gouna
hotels, which offered cocktail receptions and sumptuous festive
buffets held in special Arabesque style marquees. Culinary
teams worked their magic with magnificent displays and mouthwatering favorites as Santas gave out gift-wrapped presents to
excited children. Meanwhile at Aurora in Abu Tig Marina, egg nog
was served to guests as they enjoyed Christmas tunes by a band
of Cairo’s best musicians who called themselves the Silly Santas.
Rev. Adrian Saunders led the English church service on
Christmas morning with readings, prayers, and Holy
Communion, and restaurants in Downtown served a traditional
British dinner with roast turkey and all the trimmings, including
Christmas puddings, Yule logs, and mince pies to finish off
the feast. The popular Puddleduck Restaurant had to hold two
sittings to accommodate everyone, and tables had been fully
booked by residents since October. Sleeves were rolled up as
usual at the famous Christmas party at the Club House in Kafr.
Preparations had begun days earlier by various members of the
international community, who cooked delicious specialities from
around the world to serve at the marvellous festive feast.
Once the Christmas celebrations had come to an end, the town
set to work preparing for a spectacular New Year’s Eve calendar
of events. Glittery themed parties were on offer all over town to
welcome the striking of the clock at midnight. //
For more coverage of New Year’s celebrations in town, see our
article on page 26.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 17
ADVENTURE
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Text: Georgina Cole
Photos: Courtesy of Gala Zekri-Chatila and Georgina Cole
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Galal Zekri-Chatila’s adventure began in
Cairo last year on November 22nd, where
he started off by bicycle from his former
school, the Collège de la Sainte Famille.
“I want to inspire the younger generation
to step outside the box and follow their
dreams,” he said, before heading off into
the infamous Cairene traffic.
The four-month trek is also an embrace of
eco-friendly tourism. Zekri-Chatila has a
passion for his home country, and his urge
to travel has always been accompanied
by the knowledge that traditional means
of transport were not for him. Drawn to
the adventure of solo travelling, he began
cycling. “This is about getting to know
myself, constantly challenging myself, and
not giving up,” he said.
Before setting out on this incredibly long
journey, Zekri-Chatila prepared himself by
embarking on longer and longer bicycle
treks. At the age of 18, he ventured 450 km
on a solo trip along coastlines, deserts,
and over mountains to Nuweiba in the
Sinai Peninsula. A year later, he spent
20 days travelling 1,650 km to oases in
the Western Desert of Egypt. These trips
gave him the opportunity to study routes
and waypoints, and to test cameras and
camping equipment in advance of the 7,000
km trip to the farthest corners of Egypt.
and keen cyclist who lost a leg during a
boating accident in Sharm El Sheikh.
Zekri-Chatila was joined at the start of
his journey by 70 of his friends and fellow
students who cycled with him for the first
100 kilometers from Cairo to Ain Sokhna.
Among these was Yassin Zoghby, a friend
For the sake of his health and sanity,
Zekri-Chatila takes one day of rest from
cycling per week on long journeys. The
day after he arrived in El Gouna was a
holiday of sorts, and he recharged with
The 470 km trip to El Gouna took four
days, with overnight stays in Ain Sokhna,
Zafarana, and Ras Gharib. After arriving in
El Gouna, Zekri-Chatila checked into the
Fanadir Hotel and then proceeded to give
a talk at the meeting of the new Rotary
Club Red Sea branch here in town. The
president of the meeting, Sherif Abdul
Aziz, welcomed the cyclist. “He is making
history, and we fully support him,” he said.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 19
weighs 12 kg, and when Zekri-Chatila is
in remote areas, he carries equipment
including a tent, tinned food, and water
that increases the weight to nearly 70 kg.
His average pace is around 20 km/hour.
A Brooks leather saddle from England
and padded cycling shorts and knee
supports help provide comfort, and Dry
Fit clothing transfers moisture away from
Zekri-Chatila’s body. He also wears bike
gloves and a lightweight but strong cycle
helmet, as well as special cycling shoes
fitted with cleats that clip into the pedals
to give good power transfer. “You have to
remember to unclip them when you stop,”
said Zekri-Chatila, who nearly ended up
on the ground after stopping unexpectedly
to take a photograph.
a relaxing massage at LAX Gym. He
also enjoyed a fabulous dinner at The
Smokery with the Ma7sool film production
team, which plans to make a 70 minute
documentary of the journey.
The next day a film crew arrived from the
television channel El Nahar, and ZekriChatila visited El Gouna International
School to talk to the students and show
a teaser video of his trip. When a student
asked whether he ever got scared, ZekriChatila replied that he did, especially
once when he was camping alone in the
desert during a wild sand storm. After the
school visit, Zekri-Chatila posted photos
of the students on his social media pages
with the comment, “inspiration is rarely
ever unidirectional, because how can
you inspire anyone if you’ve never been
inspired?! Last Thursday, I was mind
blown by the extremely positive vibes
everyone at El Gouna International School
shared. The enthusiasm, the spirit...
Dudes, you were AMAZING!”
On November 29th Zekri-Chatila left El
Gouna for Hurghada, where he travelled
by boat across the Red Sea to Sharm El
Sheikh. His trip then took him up the Sinai
coast to Dahab. He had noted while in
El Gouna that he was looking forward to
reaching the Bedouin camps and paying a
visit to St Catherine’s Monastery. The next
stage covered Suez and Port Said, after
which the cyclist traversed the lush Nile
Delta to Sallum, a town west of Marsa
Matrouh near the border with Libya. This
route gave him the chance to cycle in the
rain along the Mediterranean coast.
Stage six marked the beginning of the
most difficult portion of the trip as the
adventurer headed down to the Western
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Desert, reaching Siwa as the new year
began. At of the time of writing ZekriChatila was staying with friends in a
traditional mud house in the oasis and
preparing to move on to Luxor, Qena
and Safaga. Afterwards he will head to
the deep south of Egypt at Halayeb near
Shalateen. “I’m looking forward to visiting
the camel market and seeing the huge
lorries loaded with supplies from Sudan,”
he remarked. “Lorries always inspire me
on the road. In those few short seconds
we connect as we exchange a wave, and
their horns blast in encouragement while
they pass me.” The final stage of the
journey will cover Aswan and Abu Simbel,
and Zekri-Chatila will return along the
River Nile to Cairo. In total, the planned
route covers over 60 destinations in 20
governorates, with the potential to meet
all sorts of people and encounter all sorts
of adventures.
Zekri-Chatila’s bike, an American Novara
built for touring, was purchased from
a friend. “It used to be called ‘Fawzia,’”
he said, “which means wisdom, but I
preferred ‘Sophia,’” another name for
wisdom. The bicycle is equipped with
pannier racks front and back, and Sophia
carries a heavy load. The bike itself
The cyclist is loaded up with three
cameras to record his journey, and an
emergency response team in Cairo
tracks his progress via GPS. Each
morning the team gives Zekri-Chatila a
weather report and helps plan logistics
for the route that day. Live tracking
shows them his location and when he
stops, and media contacts help keep
news about his progress flowing.
When not touring Egypt by bike,
Zekri-Chatila works as an adventure
travel designer and leader for Wild
Guanabana, where he arranges school
trips and excursions for corporate
team events. He is also a junior mass
communications student at Modern
Sciences and Arts University in Cairo,
though he is currently taking a semester
off for the journey. His ultimate goal
is to produce an adventure show for
Egyptian television. When asked how his
parents felt about his solo adventures
on a bicycle, he smiled. “At first they
didn’t agree with the idea,” he admitted.
“But now they are very proud of me.” //
Follow Zekri-Chatila’s progress on his
Facebook page, which is under the
name Galal Zekri Chatila. He is also
on Instagram at @galalzekri, and his
website can be found at http:www.
egypton2wheels.com, www.youtube.com
" La Rotisserie " Is the Steigenberger Golf Resort’s French
Mediterranean restaurant located in the tower of the Golf Club.
7KHFRQWHPSRUDU\ÀQHGLQLQJUHVWDXUDQWIHDWXUHVWRSFXOLQDU\
delights, enjoy our stylish and attentive service.
For inquiries and reservations, please contact Steigenberger Golf Resort-El Gouna, Red Sea
Telephone 002 065 358 0140 - 44 Ext 130 Fax 002 065 358 0149 /47
steigenberger@steigenbergergolf.com www.steigenbergergolfelgouna.com
Hours of business Daily: 6.30 -10.30 p.m.
ART
Art Café Gouna
Discover the artist in you!
Art Café was created
to provide a space for
people to venture into
a world of creativity
and imagination. It
is a place to learn
new skills that give
expression to hidden
talents, and a place
of tranquillity and
inspiration where any
potential artist can
flourish.
Art Café first opened 14 years ago in
Cairo, in the garden of an old villa in the
tree-lined suburb of Maadi. Founders
Hoda Kamal, Rana Zaben, and Nadia
Shoukry decided to create a place where
art would be appreciated and artists could
flourish. They expanded the business
in 2012, when an Art Café opened in
El Gouna in the piazza area of Abu Tig
Marina close to Moods.
Art Café provides a variety of courses
and workshops with professional and
specialized instructors for all ages. The
offerings range from candle making to
pottery, from photography to Photoshop,
and from fine arts to the applied arts.
Recently Art Café was the scene of a
modern Arabic calligraphy class, and
part-time resident Angela Ruggles, who
takes an art course each time she comes
to El Gouna, said she appreciated the
opportunity to learn how to do Arabic
lettering. “I came away able to write my
family’s names as well as poetic phrases
in three or four scripts,” she noted.
Ruggles, who used her new-found skill to
decorate a circular tea tray, also enjoyed
a recent decoupage session at Art Café
that involved decorating a wooden box
with pictures.
In November 2014, an intensive crash
course in academic art was held over
four days. The course was run by Dr.
Yasser Shehata, a graduate of the Faculty
of Fine Arts at Alexandria University
who pursued a Ph.D. in Art History at
the Berlin Academy of Art. Participants
explored sketching in depth, attending two
four-hour sessions per day. The students
followed the first level of a course called
“Learn to See,” which covers sketching
objects with charcoal.
During one session, Dr. Shehata, who
teaches mainly in Cairo, positioned a tall
clay pot under spot lights until he was
happy with the shadows created. The
students sat at colorful tables and chairs
outside the café to sketch the object,
and Dr. Shehata instructed them not to
think about the pot, but to focus on light,
shadow, and shape and to sketch what
they saw before them. “Everyone will
see the object differently,” he explained.
The students set to work drawing the
outline of the clay pot with their charcoal
on a large piece of white paper, adding
stronger lines for details and shading, and
then smudging with their fingers to create
texture and shadows.
The next project was to sketch a selection
of shells and starfish arranged on a
white cloth, and this was followed with a
sketch of a Roman bust sculpture. After
completing the sketch of each subject,
the students analysed each other’s work.
“Life is all about perception,” said student
and resident Mona Safey, “You can see
how everyone has interpreted the head
and shoulders differently.”
Next Dr. Shehata unwrapped a cast of the
famous Renaissance statue of David by the
sculptor Michelangelo. After a few giggles
at the naked sculpture, the students set
to work with their charcoal. The Greek
goddess of love and beauty Venus di Milo
was the next subject, and the cast stood
elegantly in the bright sunshine on the
piazza. Suzanne Ali, who had travelled
from Cairo to attend the course, noted
that she preferred to sketch the curves
of the female body more than the male
form. Safey said she believed that this
assignment brought out how the students
felt about themselves, and she was excited
Feb - Mar 2015 | 23
at the progress made by all. “Less is
more with the shading in charcoal,” she
said. “You can see everyone getting more
confident as they learn new techniques.”
The course finished with a four-day
exhibition of the students’ work. Those
who wish to continue may take a second
course called “The Language of Forms,”
the next level of Art Academy. This course
involves the use of pastels, drawing,
and painting still life. Additional courses
entitled “Collage and Textures” and “Old
Master Technique” allow students to
choose the direction they wish to go, with
the former involving work with paper and
the latter helping cultivate the approach
to painting that European artists took in
the 17th century. All participants in the
academy will be granted a certificate
accredited from the Altuna Internationale
Kunst Akademie in Berlin, Germany.
The Art Café in El Gouna is also a great
place for children to learn. Courses are
available beginning around age three
(with parents accompanying), and the
art instruction is designed to boost
children’s self-esteem and create a sense
of accomplishment. Activities include
storytelling events and making costumes,
and a brightly colored children’s workshop
is full of paints, brushes, and countless
other materials that inspire creativity.
Reyam Ali El-Molla, who directs the Art
Café branch in El Gouna, is available to
arrange birthday parties, school trips,
summer camps, and events for groups.
Individuals are also welcome to drop-by
for inspiration and to work at one of the
activity tables.
Art Café has also arranged corporate
events in Cairo, noted Hoda Kamal. In one
instance, Art Café made arrangements
for one hundred employees of a company
in Cairo to paint a mural. At another
event, employees of a different company
organized a banquet, taking on the tasks
of menu planning, cooking a three-course
meal, and making table decorations that
involved candle making, cake decoration,
and flower arranging. “Art is excellent for
team building and communication skills,”
said Kamal. “We would love to do similar
events in El Gouna.” //
For more information about prices and
courses check out Art Café’s Facebook
page under the name ArtCafe Gouna.
The organization can also be reached by
phone at El Gouna extension 75522 and or
by email at gouna@artcafe-egypt.com.
SD 92
112
126
SL 72
82
86
96
106
118
40Alloy
460Exp
46Steel
52Steel
900 PAIRS OF HANDS, DRIVEN BY A SINGLE PASSION.
THIS IS WHAT IT TAKES TO BUILD A SANLORENZO.
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combining elegance and design with
the satisfaction of owning a truly
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a century, every Sanlorenzo has been
custom-made for its owner, like a
tailored suit. Sanlorenzo yachts are
built to the very highest standards
because they are made by people who
constantly strive for the very best, right
down to the smallest detail.
The handcrafted tradition, passed
down from father to son, and the
complete customization of every boat,
ensure that no other yacht will ever
equal a Sanlorenzo.
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Tel: +2 02 33363393 - Fax: +2 02 33366952 - Mob: +2 0114 5000005
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60Steel
62Steel
EVENTS
NEW
YEAR’S
EVE
A MEMORABLE
NIGHT IN
EL GOUNA
Text: Georgina Cole
Photography: Darren Huble at Cairo Zoom and Georgina Cole
Feb - Mar 2015 | 27
EVERY NEW YEAR’S EVE, THE CALENDAR
OF EVENTS IN EL GOUNA BECOMES MORE
AND MORE IMPRESSIVE. OUR MAGAZINE
HAD EYES ALL OVER TOWN CAPTURING
THE CELEBRATIONS THAT WELCOMED
THE ARRIVAL OF 2015.
Dusty cars speeding in from the Cairo highway and the sound of
luggage wheels rolling along footpaths and corridors signalled
the arrival of the party crowds and vacationers that had come to
celebrate the New Year in El Gouna. Cafés quickly filled up in the
warm afternoon sunshine, and the famous Egyptian actor Omar
Sherif was spotted taking a stroll. Out at sea, the turquoise blue
horizon was dotted with white motor yachts where merrymakers
enjoyed the last day of 2014 and friends greeted each other
across wooden boat decks. Behind the scenes, finishing touches
were added at party venues from one end of town to the other. As
the sun set, the sound of music systems began to fill the air. It
was going to be a long and noisy night.
Private villas prepared for poolside parties, and Swiss
residents in Phase 4 brought a reminder of their snowy
mountain home to El Gouna with bubbling cheese
fondues. At the hotels, guests gathered at
cocktail receptions before seating themselves
inside Arabesque marquees decorated
like palaces. A packed evening of
entertainment and sumptuous buffet
feasts lay ahead, with party hats and
glittery masks ready on the tables.
The Three Corners Rihana and
Ocean View Hotel tent was full
to capacity with 1400 people,
including guests from other
hotels like Captain’s Inn,
Dawar El Omda, Sultan
Bey, Mosaique, and
Fandadir.
Tamr Henna square was
buzzing with anticipation,
and the sweet smell and
gurgling sound of fruit
shisha pipes filled the
air. Jobos Sports Bar had
been transformed into a
winter wonderland with
snowflakes hanging from
the ceilings and icicles
dangling around the bar
tops. Tables were covered
in white cloths, and the floor
was blanketed with
fake snow. Soft blankets
were draped across the
backs of the white chairs
to ward off the chill of the
night air.
As the guests arrived at Jobos, waiters dressed in crisp white
galabeyas with checked head scarfs got the party warmed up.
Wael and Karim provided the live music, and a talent contest
featured four adorable young children who performed a gymnastic
display. The three girls arrived dressed as Christmas trees: they
wore green coned capes decorated with green tinsel and a gold
star on top. A little boy dressed as a round white snowman joined
them. Soon after, the music had everyone on their feet, turning the
icy scene into the hottest spot in Downtown.
Nearby in Kafr, the new Grasshopper Restaurant and Cafe (formerly
El Taybeen), had opened up in time for the holiday season. It was
an ideal locale for those seeking a quieter night with its cosy warm
atmosphere and a traditional turkey dinner. Meanwhile, along a
quiet alleyway near Captain’s Inn, the Smugglers English Pub also
kept things simple. No reservation required, no entrance charges,
and all drinks priced at just 20 LE all night.
Property owners Karin and Ashley Latham were visiting their
marina flat for the New Year. With nothing planned and no
reservations made, they decided to take a chance and wander
around until something took their fancy. “The evening turned
into a great multicultural night meeting up with friends from
Australia, Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, and Switzerland, in the Irish
Pub!” said Karin.
On the north basin of Abu Tig Marina, The Smokery restaurant
staged a lavish party taking guests on a flight of fantasy with a Las
Vegas theme. “I was completely inspired from the minute I arrived,”
said resident Laila Aggag. “Tables were decorated with playing
cards, dice, and American dollar bills. We were definitely in Vegas
baby!” Showgirls danced on stage wearing feathered headdresses
and beaded costumes. Managers of the luxury yacht Seven Spices,
which was moored outside The Smokery, didn’t have far to walk. “It
was a great start to the new year,”
said Peter and Debbie Dickens. “Endless cocktails and champagne,
an extravagant dinner served in a magical setting filled with
glamour, modern décor, music, and fine entertainment.”
In the center of the marina, Aurora Lounge Bar hosted
a glitter and gold extravaganza. Tables were reserved
in advance, and guests arrived dressed in the glitz and
glamour befitting the gold, black, and bold dress code.
For the over-21 crowd, the night was all about the music
provided by four of Egypt’s most elite DJs. At the stroke of
midnight, fireworks filled the sky and the corks popped out
of champagne bottles that had been chilling ready on every
table. Then the party really got started.
The grandest party of all was reserved for VIP guests only,
and held at Ancient Sands Resort around the golf club
house fountain. The ‘Royal Fantasy’ theme was organised
by the party princes Giovanni Bolandrini and Tamer Banna.
The event had a dress code of modern baroque with heavily
decorated clothes suitable for kings and queens, complete
with diamond tiaras and jewel-studded crowns.
Sally Henry from El Gouna International School was very
impressed when she arrived at the reception with her
husband and found a life sized model horse and royal
carriage set up for the perfect royal photo opportunity.
British Royal Guards wearing red jackets and tall bearskin
hats towered above on stilts. Portraits hung in gilded
frames, and a golden throne surrounded by heavy red
velvet drapes was ready for the next royal photo shoot.
Elegant ladies wearing excessively elaborate wigs and
gowns with hooped skirts and corseted tops mingled with
the party guests. One guest opted for the style of Egyptian
royalty and dressed as Queen Cleopatra.
Resident Amina Latif, who wore a striking black and
silver outfit, thought the royal party was very grand and
especially enjoyed the Ray Cocktails. “Everyone was in
great spirits and made a big effort with their outfits. An
amazing atmosphere and a memorable night!” she said.
“It was just a shame that the next day was definitely a bad
head day!”
As the perfect night came to an end just before sunrise, a
dusty wind whipped up as the hard work of sweeping up
party poppers began. Sore heads were nursed, and the
arrival of professional photographs on gossip websites
eagerly waited as a reminder of the somewhat blurry end
to a great night. //
Feb - Mar 2015 | 29
HEALTH
El Gouna Hospital
Updating to serve patient needs
Text: Jenny Cooper
Photography: Dave Cooper
2014 was a year of change at El Gouna Hospital. Dr Ahmed Abdel
Aaty, who had served for many years as the hospital’s assistant
general manager, was promoted to the position of general
manager and CEO. His long familiarity with the institution allowed
him to hit the ground running on a variety of changes and updates.
“The hospital is El Gouna’s main infrastructural asset,” he noted,
“and our mission is to exceed our patients’ expectations.”
Founded by Prof. Dr. Fathy Iskander in 1998, the El Gouna Hospital
has always been well-equipped, boasting specialist staff and
technology normally associated with big city hospitals. The facility
offers an impressive range of services. It contains an emergency
department, an intensive care unit, a coronary intensive care unit,
a radiology unit, a hemodialysis unit, a neonatal unit, a diagnostic
laboratory, a dental clinic, and an ophthalmology department.
In addition to a wide range of patient rooms of various kinds, it
contains three major operating theatres.
Dr. Abdel Aaty explained a recent change in the management
concept of the hospital. “Profits earned are reinvested in
the hospital,” he noted, “which means that in addition to
being commercially viable, it stays up-to-date and remains a
beautiful place.”
The hospital truly is a beautiful place. It is built on one level, and
the reception area is the central hub from which everything else
radiates. The architectural features are understated but stunning.
A huge central dome floods the reception area with light, and the
acoustics and beautiful tapestry provide a sense of calm.
In the latter half of 2014, noted Dr. Abdel Aaty, the hospital
upgraded all services, making them more automated. “In
addition,” he said, “highly-qualified personnel have been added
to maintain European standards of quality and hospitality.”
The radiology department received a full overhaul. In midDecember, state-of-the-art machines were delivered, adding
to the existing MRI scanner and mammography equipment.
These included a new multi-sided CT scanner that enables the
hospital to perform CT angiograms, GIT virtual endoscopy, and
calcium scoring of the heart so that patients no longer have to
travel to Cairo for these services. In addition, the department
received a new X-ray machine, and upgrades were made to
the existing X-ray equipment. The addition of a new ultrasound
machine brought the total of such machines to three, including
an impressive 4D ultrasound.
For many residents and visitors in El Gouna, the availability of highquality healthcare is a significant factor in the decision to vacation
or live here. The existence of an excellent hospital has been a
wonderful asset to the town, and ongoing updates ensure that the
facility continues to provide state-of-the-art care.
The hospital laboratory saw the addition of three new devices that
facilitate and further automate testing, delivering results in a shorter
time and with greater accuracy than before. Another new addition is
a machine that measures hormone levels so that such tests can now
be conducted in house rather than being sent to Cairo.
The dental clinic in the hospital has been completely reequipped
and furnished, and it now boasts the most up-to-date machines
on the market. The dental equipment previously at the hospital
was dismantled and reassembled in Bustan, creating a branch
location to serve residents there.
Patient rooms were also updated with new décor and LED
televisions to increase patient comfort. Even the hospital meal
service was changed; all food now comes from the kitchen of
Seventh Star restaurant in Abu Tig Marina.
The calm environment makes it easy to lose sight of the fact
that this is a busy working hospital, which makes renovation,
redecorating, and replacing high tech equipment a complex task,
because these things must be done while maintaining continuity
of services and standards of patient care.
On the medical staffing side, the hospital now has new
consultants in neurosurgery, plastic surgery, geriatric medicine,
and weight loss surgery. Over the course of 2015 the hospital is
developing medical tourism packages to be added to the alreadyexisting hemodialysis holidays, which allow those who need
dialysis to vacation in El Gouna. The new programs will include
dental, weight loss, and plastic surgery services, and they will be
covered in detail in a coming issue of El Gouna Magazine.
In addition to his duties in El Gouna, Dr. Abdel Aaty oversees the
hospital in Taba Heights, another destination owned by Orascom, El
Gouna’s parent company. He has also implemented changes in that
facility, which has seen the addition of a new radiology department,
a laboratory, an intensive care unit, an emergency room, and an
in-patient department. Closer to home, the El Gouna hospital has
initiated a charitable program in poor areas of Hurghada, providing
much-needed healthcare services to the surrounding community.” //
To find out more about El Gouna Hospital contact them at
telephone extension 32222 or visit the website at
www.elgounahospital.com.eg. Visits of the facility can also
be arranged.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 31
ADVERTORIAL
Mangroovy
Residence
Mangroovy residence is the first-ever large-scale residential
compound to be developed in El Gouna.
The project layout is inspired by the mangrove tree, a plant
that forms the basis of intricate ecosystems in coastal regions
around the world. The buildings of the compound flow in trunklike tendrils down to the shoreline, blending into the natural
environment of the Red Sea coastline and lagoons.
The development covers a vast area directly on the beachfront
and offers units in sizes ranging from one to four bedrooms.
The contemporary-style apartments are fully finished and
delivered with white fixtures, kitchens, and closets. The
architectural style of the buildings features clusters of units on
multiple levels, ensuring that all residences have breathtaking
views of the surrounding landscape.
Mangroovy is designed to turn visions of the perfect vacation
into reality. Units combine indoor luxury with proximity to pools,
the beach, lagoons, and the Red Sea beyond. The buildings and
landscaping feature tranquil earth tones that suit the indigenous
landscape, and the project includes a great range of outdoor
activities, restaurants, retail outlets, and cafes. In addition to
private units, the development will also contain a hotel and a
clubhouse where residents can enjoy a variety of recreational
activities.
Do you love vacationing in El Gouna? Does the town’s unique
combination of serenity and liveliness appeal to you? If so, let us
help you make this beautiful place a home.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 33
FEATURE
SERVICE
ABOVE
SELF
Rotary International
comes to El Gouna
In late 2014 Rotary Club in Egypt
selected El Gouna as the venue for
its second Vocational Service Seminar.
Moreover, a new Rotary Club was
founded for the Red Sea region, bringing
the total number of clubs in Egypt to 79.
Every day more than 1.2 million Rotary
Club members around the world
conduct humanitarian and community
service in their local communities and
beyond. Founded in 1905 as the world’s
first service club organization, Rotary
International now has members in 34,000
clubs in over 200 countries. Rotary club
members are professionals and business
people who live by the organization’s
motto of “service above self,” working as
volunteers to combat hunger, improve
health and sanitation, provide education
and job training, and promote peace.
At the end of October last year, the Egypt
district of Rotary International held its
second Vocational Service Seminar in El
Gouna. The seminar was led by H.E. Dr.
Laila Iskander, minister of urban renewal
and information settlements, as well as by
H.E. General Ahmed Abdallah, governor of
the Red Sea. The seminar was designed
to highlight sustainable vocational training
initiatives in the fields of construction and
tourism, and to shed light on vocational
training partnerships and the concept of
vocational training teams.
The two-day seminar was held at the
Technische Universität Berlin’s El Gouna
campus, and visiting Rotarians were
given a tour of the town’s Waste Recycling
Plant, the German Hotel School, and El
Gouna Technical Nursing Institute (GTNI).
Rotary Club Egypt sponsors nursing
students who cannot afford this type of
education, and the visitors were excited
to observe a clinical laboratory session
at GTNI. The opportunity allowed the
Rotarians to learn about GTNI’s values,
mission, and philosophy. “They were
very impressed with the project and its
contribution to improving the standards
of nursing and healthcare in Egypt,” said
Linda Gorman, vice dean of GTNI.
The Vocational Seminar also recognized
outstanding performance and dedication
to employment in El Gouna. Assistant
Governor Dina Nashed presented awards
to six El Gouna employees: Mohamed
Abdallah El-Sayed (Club Paradisio
Hotel), Farouk Fahim Beshir and Hamdy
Abdel Hamid Hassan (El Gouna Security
Department), Ramadan Khalifa Sayed (El
Bustan Street Cleaning), Botros Fangary
Boulos (El Gouna Recycling Plant), and
Khairat Ibrahim Gohar (Gardening).
Each awardee received a Certificate of
Appreciation and a monetary prize.
A marathon and walkathon beginning
at Abu Tig Marina and ending at the
TUB building were also arranged for
the Rotarians. Spectators showered the
competitors with toy water pistols as
they completed the race, and the fun
atmosphere carried over into the medal
presentation ceremony. Seventeenyear-old Youssef Wael from Rotaract
Alexandria Rakouda won the men’s
marathon. Rotaract (“Rotary in Action”)
clubs work under the guidance of Rotary
Clubs and are designed for younger
members ages 18 – 30. Interact clubs
also exist for members ages 11–18.
Young members are currently being
recruited in the Red Sea region by
Loujaiina El Chinnawy, who has recently
moved to Hurghada. El Chinnawy has
been an Interact Club member for five
years and served as president of the
Cairo Royal club for the past two years.
Rotary Egypt’s newest club—the Rotary
Club Red Sea—held its first meeting
in El Gouna on November 20th, 2014.
District Governor Ahmed Saada and
Assistant Governor Dina Nashed
welcomed prospective new Rotarians
and spoke on the history of Rotary
International. Subsequent meetings
focused on recruiting contributors to
the club and choosing humanitarian
projects. Committee members were
also appointed.
Just a month later, the new club
presented itself to the community at
the Arts & Fleas Christmas Bazaar held
December 18th-19th in Abu Tig Marina.
A Rotary Red Sea table was set up by
members who wore matching shirts
featuring the new Rotary El Gouna logo.
Visitors to the table learned about Rotary
International and the local club’s plans for
projects in the community. A documentary
about Rotary International was also
projected on the large event screen.
One of the first projects completed by the
new club was organizing the Hurghada
blood donation vehicle to be present at
the Arts & Fleas event. Rotarians donated
blood and encouraged visitors to take
time to do the same. Dr Bassem and the
blood donation team received donations
from 22 volunteers, helping restore blood
bank levels in the Hurghada area.
Research associate Christoph Banhardt
from the TUB campus in El Gouna also
joined the Rotary table. TUB university
students are conducting a study of the
town’s carbon footprint over the winter
semester, and as part of their research,
a questionnaire was presented to visitors
to the Rotary table who were invited to
provide information about their personal
energy use.
As the lights were set to go out at the
Christmas bazaar, the enthusiastic new
Rotarians huddled together to discuss
an additional project aimed at helping
residents of the informal settlements in
Hurghada. Various ideas were mentioned,
including arranging mobile medical units,
providing food aid, and implementing
long-term solutions to poor living
conditions and unemployment. Some of
these ideas began to be put into action
at subsequent weekly meetings, and the
Rotarians were assisted by the Urban
Development department at TUB, which
provided data from their recent studies of
the informal settlement areas. //
Rotary Club meetings are held once a
week every Tuesday at 7:30 pm at the
El Gouna library. For more information
about Rotary International, visit the
organization’s website at www.rotary.
org. The Facebook page of the local
Rotary Club can be found under the name
“Rotary Club of Red Sea—El Gouna.”
Feb - Mar 2015 | 35
ENVIRONMENT
Micro Climates
A study of El Gouna’s weather
A meteorological and climatological measuring campaign in
El Gouna started in February 2013, when scientists, academics,
and students began gathering important data to be studied
by the Urban Development, and Energy Engineering Master’s
Degree Programs at the Technische Universität Berlin’s El
Gouna Campus. The campaign was organised by Prof. Dr. Sahar
Sodoudi of the Institute of Meteorology at Freie Universität in
Berlin, whose students flew to Egypt to join students from Cairo
University, Helwan University, and the American. Sodoudi is
a professor in the field of urban climate whose expertise is in
climate change adaptation and micro-scale mitigation through
urban elements.
The first part of the campaign was a two-week study in early
2013 that monitored the local climate at various locations around
El Gouna. Working in shifts over a 24 hour period, the university
students recorded air and surface temperature, humidity, and
wind velocity. El Gouna International School children were also
given the chance to assist with the data recording.
A second two-week study took place in October 2013, and the
third and final study was completed in September 2014. The
latter was targeted specifically at the Ancient Sands Resort area
of El Gouna, where students once again gathered measurements
from different points in the resort. The data showed that
temperatures were significantly cooler at Ancient Sands
compared to Downtown, and humidity levels were higher.
The climate measuring campaign was made possible by a
€30,000 sponsorship from the German Academic Exchange
Service (DAAD), which finances short term scholarships
for young Egyptian and German scientists. The program
targets researchers enrolled in MSc and PhD programs, and
scholarships are awarded for a period from three to six months.
As El Gouna continues its quest to be the first carbon neutral city
in Africa, university students are completing a study of the micro
climates within the town, seeking to understand what methods
can be used in the construction of urban areas to mitigate heat.
The students’ study noted the fact that cities around the world
show higher temperatures than their surrounding open spaces.
This phenomenon is called an ‘Urban Heat Island’ (UHI) and
is caused when natural land surfaces are changed and roads
and buildings are constructed. This changes the albedo of the
area, or the amount of sunlight absorbed or reflected by the
space. Concrete and asphalt have a lower albedo than most
other building materials, and therefore they absorb much more
incoming solar radiation than vegetated areas. Using high-albedo
materials and white coatings are among the most efficient ways
to cool an urban environment.
Bodies of water also absorb radiation at high rates. The air
temperature near or over water bodies is much different from
that over land due to differences in the way water heats and cools.
Water features within an urban area have a positive effect on the
microclimate of the surrounding areas; on a hot sunny day, natural
cooling is achieved from the evaporative process of the water.
Trees and other plants also help to reduce the temperature.
Planting vegetation is a simple and effective way to reduce urban
heat islands. Trees, bushes, and small plants lower surface
and air temperatures by providing shade and through evapotranspiration. Evaporation is the movement of water to the air,
while transpiration is the movement of water within a plant.
Evapo-transpiration is the sum of both from the earth’s land or
ocean surface to the atmosphere.
Utilizing high albedo materials, bodies of water, vegetation, and
shaded surfaces can all mitigate UHI and save energy and cost.
An excellent example of urban planning for a hot climate that
uses these methods can be found in the architectural design of
Ancient Sands Resort, which fuses Andalusian and Arabesque
styles. The exteriors are covered in a white coating to reflect
solar radiation and ensure that the living environment remains
comfortable regardless of the heat. The architects incorporated
features such as bricked vaulted ceilings, shady archways, and
pergola-covered terraces in the open living areas to allow natural
breezes to flow through the homes. Water features, swimming
pools, and fountains have been built throughout the courtyards
and passageways. The resort is elevated on a hilltop to take
maximum advantage of the cooling breezes, and the surrounding
green golf course and lagoons completes the design. “The style
is based on a Moorish concept dating back to the 12th century
before modern day air-conditioning,” explains International Sales
and Marketing Director Edward Hill.
The climate study data will be used in the present winter term
project for the students at TUB El Gouna Campus. Their aim is to
identify multidimensional measures that would allow all of El Gouna
to be carbon neutral. El Gouna’s carbon footprint will be measured,
and a feasibility study on ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
will be carried out by the students, who will present their findings
in a brochure with recommendations for the management of El
Gouna. The students will also present their work for discussion at
a designated Community Forum El Gouna 2030 for residents and
members of the public to attend in the middle of February 2015.
Egypt is the most vulnerable of all Arab countries to global
warming. Climate change due to carbon emissions threatens to
increase rising sea levels, which are of special concern in the
Nile Delta, where millions of agriculture workers’ livelihoods
could be threatened. //
For further information on the study, contact Technische
Universität Berlin’s El Gouna campus by email at info@campuselgouna.tu-berlin.de or by telephone at +20 (0) 65 3561 420. Their
website is located at www.campus-elgouna.tu-berlin.de
Feb - Mar 2015 | 37
ADVERTORIAL
ART MARINE
Interview with CEO Greg Stinner
Q: When did you become passionate about yachts, and how has this
influenced your career?
A: It all started in 2004 with the purchase of our home in El Gouna.
My passion for the sea began to develop when my close friend
and neighbor in the Old Nubian Village, Seif Fahmy, bought his
first boat, which he kept on a private jetty in front of his house.
The whole lifestyle of having a beachfront home with a boat right
at hand fascinated me. I wanted the flexibility to go any time with
family and friends to visit the beautiful islands and coral reefs
surrounding El Gouna. This dream led to the purchase of my
first boat. A seasoned Gouny friend, Christoph Brunner-Schwer,
coached me during my first excursions at sea.
In 2007, my passion for leisure boating spilled over into my
business interests. After two decades of holding senior positions
in various multinational organizations in the Middle East, I decided
to go out on my own, founding the Synergy Group, which provides
up-to-date multidisciplinary consultancy services to top European
companies in the infrastructure-related engineering sector. At the
same time, my passion for yachts led me to Riva, an iconic shipyard
almost two centuries old that has a rich tradition of hand-crafting
some of the most beautiful yachts in the nautical world.
I had my eye on Riva’s 33-foot Aquariva Super, but its high
purchase price led me to become Riva’s exclusive dealer for Egypt.
This is what led to the establishment of the Red Sea Boat Service
Company and the inauguration of our Abu Tig Marina boutique
showroom in 2008. We faced many challenges, but against all odds
and despite lower-priced competition, we have done very well in
a tight niche market. Thus far we have sold around a dozen Riva
yachts ranging in size from 33 to 115 feet.
By end of 2010 we received the Riva award for best emerging
market dealership worldwide, an accomplishment we were very
proud of. Since that time we have expanded, and we now have the
entire Ferretti Group with its eight brands in our portfolio. This
is how my personal passion and enthusiasm for leisure boating
earned me a name in this industry.
Q: What is ART Marine? When did it begin, and what are its defining
features? Why did you join the company, and how have you helped
shape it?
A: ART Marine was founded in 2005. It grew rapidly in size
and territorial coverage, maturing quickly into a successful,
360-degree leisure yachting enterprise. One can safely say that
ART Marine has earned a place among the leading companies in
the leisure marine sector throughout the region.
The worldwide economic downturn in 2008 and the subsequent
real estate crash in 2009 forced successful companies to take
measures to adapt to new circumstances. In June 2013 I was
assigned by the Abraaj Group to take the helm of ART Marine and
serve as its new CEO.
I quickly realized that the yachting industry had changed dramatically,
which required a fresh outlook on the industry and the immediate
adoption of a new business model. Our first mission was to set up
a coherent, lean organization that was talented, accountable, and
professional. We essentially re-launched ART Marine as a brand on its
own merits, an enterprise focused on the needs and requirements of
the most discerning clientele in the region.
Q: What do you mean by a “360-degree” yachting experience? What
facilities and services does ART Marine offer in Egypt at present, and
what do you expect to add in the future?
A: The 360-degree experience is a reference to the
comprehensive, fully-integrated services we provide. While
ensuring that all existing subsidiaries remain an integral part of
ART Marine, we have consolidated our activities into five main
divisions: yacht sales and brokerage, after sales and customer
service, marine products, marina management, and a fullfledged yacht valet service.
When it comes to yacht sales, we are not here to offer stock
boats, but instead to ensure our leisure craft are personalized
to suit the owner’s needs. Our after sales and customer service
division follows the process from the ordering stage through
pre-delivery inspection and delivery. A dedicated team of 25
specialists work on-site to carry out the detailed inspections to
control for quality and make sure we deliver excellence.
Our marina management division is undergoing significant
expansion in an already impressive portfolio of marinas.
Currently, we manage four marinas worldwide, the crown jewel
of which is the Emirates Palace Marina in Abu Dhabi. We recently
signed a cooperation agreement with NDA in China, and we
have undertaken a new marina development in Cuba. As part
of our growth strategy, we have formulated a concept called
“Destinations,” which is ART Marine’s network of top-notch
marinas. This concept increases opportunities for international
collaboration between marinas by offering reciprocal benefits at
all the marinas affiliated with the ART Marine network.
With regards to Egypt, our main focus is on the Red Sea coast,
where we are already in advanced discussions with various
developers and marina owners. In 2014 we signed our first
management contract in this region, and are in the process of
finalizing another deal with a much larger marina.
Our yacht sales and brokerage division here will integrate the
Red Sea Boat Service Company, which has had much success
with the Riva brand and which gives us an excellent platform
for expanding ART Marine’s presence and incorporating our
portfolio of services to provide coverage in El Gouna and the
surrounding area.
Q: Which yachts are most popular with buyers here?
A: Each market has its own unique aspects, and Egypt has
changed dramatically since the 2011 revolution. Boat owners and
new buyers have come to grips with the fact that a large, fly-bridge
yacht of 90 feet or more is not really needed to enjoy a day out at
sea amidst the beautiful islands and destinations around El Gouna.
We predict that wealthy boating enthusiasts will increasingly opt
for either fly-bridge yachts between 45-75 feet or will choose
smaller open or semi-open yachts that have more outdoor
entertainment space rather than luxurious salons and multiple
cabins that tend to be underutilized.
In my opinion, comfort, speed, and versatility will be the driving
criteria, along with reasonable operating cost, initial purchasing
budget, and re-sale potential.
Q: What tips do you offer prospective yacht buyers here in Egypt?
A: Whether you are an experienced or inexperienced buyer, my
advice is to identify your basic criteria. How many guests and
crew do you wish to accommodate? What design (open, coupe,
fly-bridge, etc) are you most comfortable with? How much are you
ready to allocate to the purchase, and what operating expenses
are you prepared to absorb each year? Once these questions
are answered, we can help you select suitable brands and
configurations and choose between the many options. We take a
bespoke approach to client relations. We do not need to push a
particular brand or model, because in addition to the brands we
represent, we also have a large portfolio of pre-owned boats that
allows for the maximum trade-in capability.
Client satisfaction and convenience are of utmost important to us.
Buying a yacht is not a small investment, and a competent dealer
must not only be capable of servicing the yacht after purchase,
but also be a trusted advisor who preserves integrity, trust and
professionalism.
Q: What brands does ART Marine offer, particularly here in Egypt?
A: ART Marine offers all eight brands of the Ferretti Group via
the Red Sea Boat Service Company in Egypt. We offer excellent
deals on Riva’s open and coupe range. For the more conscious
buyer who requires a heavy-duty yacht, we will re-introduce the
Itama range, and for our fly-bridge fanatics we offer the entire
portfolio of Ferretti models. All of these are equipped with the
latest technology and gadgets the industry offers. The hard-core
boater will appreciate the Mochi Craft range starting from 44 feet
and going up to the 75-foot fly-bridge configuration. Those with the
highest adrenaline requirements can check out our Pershing fleet.
We also offer Custom Line super-yachts and CRN mega-yachts to
Egyptian buyers who would use them in the Mediterranean.
Q: The luxury yacht market is very competitive. What sets ART Marine
apart? Why should prospective clients choose ART Marine?
A: No other dealership worldwide offers our 360-degree spectrum
of services, amenities, and products. We offer yachts with timeless
designs and state-of-the-art technology, and we are more than
capable of meeting the ever-growing demands and expectations
of the most discerning boating enthusiasts and yachting
connoisseurs. ART Marine caters to a clientele who not only want
a fantastic product, but also expect and deserve complete peace of
mind and an enjoyable yachting experience.
Q: What is your confidence level in the yacht industry here? What
changes have you seen over the last 18 months, and what changes do
you foresee over the short and medium term?
A: Over the past four years, the economic confidence to purchase
luxury items plummeted. Now, in the second year of Egypt’s new
leadership, we have seen positive changes. The real estate market
has recovered, massive new developments are in the pipeline, and
donor institutions and regional investors are coming back to Egypt.
Overall there has been a marked increase in morale and a sense
that the political and economic environment has stabilized with
new opportunities on the horizon. This has positively impacted the
luxury goods market and has sparked many new inquiries and the
sale of a few boats and yachts in Egypt.
Boat buyers and suppliers have learned a lot over the last decade.
Egypt’s boat and yacht market has matured. Today, most potential
buyers and re-buyers know exactly what they want, and they
know how to get the best deals. This makes it a lot easier for us
to discuss and compare notes with clients, as we do not have
to explain the positive and negative aspects of leisure yachting.
Moreover, there is solid competition in the Egyptian market, which
not only gives the client more leverage when negotiating, but also
validates the differences between the various brands represented
and present in Egypt.
Personally, I believe the market is gradually picking up, and I
predict higher sales in medium range yachts for various budgets.
Q: You have adopted a new tag line: “passion at sea.” What do you
mean by this?
A: Quite simply, without passion we couldn’t deliver excellence
and be fully committed to what we do. I am proud of my team—we
all have this state of mind and motivation to work toward one
goal: accountability. We are relentlessly committed to customer
satisfaction by offering the best brands and choice of designs while
maintaining our client’s prized yachts at the highest standards
and ensuring reliability and availability when it counts the most.
ART Marine is here to make our clients’ yachting experience an
unforgettable and enjoyable journey.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 39
ART
Street Art
iGraffin Elti brightensGouna
walls downtown
Text: Jenny Cooper
Photography: Dave Cooper
Over the second half of 2014, walls across El Gouna
were found covered in spray paint. Credit for the large
expanses of graffiti doesn’t belong to bored teenagers
amusing themselves under the cover of darkness, but to
four professional street artists.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 41
Swiss painters Patrick Wehrli and Axel Hohl, and renowned
Egyptian street artists Ammar Abo Bakr and Aya Tarek spent
time in El Gouna over the course of the fall, painting mural-size
works on walls across Downtown. The paintings, which can be
found from the go-kart track to El Kafr, have attracted lots of
attention.
The artwork on the wall of El Mohandes Supermarket marked
the first collaboration between Abo Bakr and Aya Tarek. “It was
exciting to create a mural in El Gouna,” said Abo Bakr. “In the
country of Egypt, this is a unique opportunity.” He and Tarek were
inspired by pharaonic symbols like the cows of Dendera, which
they combined with kitesurfing motifs that symbolize El Gouna’s
water sports culture.
The four other murals Downtown were painted by Patrick Wehrli
and his friend and fellow artist Alex Hohl. Wehrli, who uses the
artist name “Redl,” was born and raised in Zurich. He began
painting graffiti in 1983 and was one of the first street artists in
Switzerland. He became famous in his early years for his skill
and for the risks associated with creating illegal graffiti art. In
addition to painting in his home country, he has painted in cities
across Europe as well as in New York, where he painted walls
and subway cars.
Wehrli and Hohl approached El Gouna’s parent company,
Orascom Development Holding (ODH), in early 2014 about
painting in town, because they had heard that Eng. Samih
Sawiris, OHD’s CEO, appreciates high quality street art. After
a series of emails, plans were in place for the artists to visit El
Gouna in August and select ideal spots for murals. Special spray
paints were brought in from Europe, and the two began working
on a mural on the wall at the go-cart track.
“Initially the idea was to paint the walls of service buildings,”
said Wehrli, “but the scope changed after the success of the first
mural.” Three additional high-visibility walls were made available
for the artists on their subsequent visit. The two men returned to
El Gouna in October, painting the three walls in six long days.
The results are larger than life, and the detail on the murals is
incredible. “The reaction we got from everyone was super nice,”
said Wehrli. “Old, young, local, foreigner, black, white—everyone
was satisfied! The warm congratulations made the hard work
worthwhile.” //
The murals of all four artists are visible on walls throughout the
Downtown area, and more can be learned about the artists and
their work at the following websites: www.artworks.ch;
www.redl.ch; www.ayatarek.com; and www.alexhohl.ch. The
artists can also be found on Facebook under the names “Redl,”
“Ammar Abo Bakr,” and “Aya Tarek.”
Join us for a culinary voyage to the Land of Smiles at
Bua Khao Thai restaurant, serving traditional recipes
with exotic flavors from succulent curries, sizzling
plates to tangy seafood.
Mövenpick Resort & Spa El Gouna
P.O. Box 72, El Gouna, Red Sea, Egypt
Phone +20 65 3544501, El Gouna Ext. 120
resort.elgouna@moevenpick.com
www.moevenpick-hotels.com
Bua Khao Thai flavors.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 43
UPDATES
What's new
NOW AVAILABLE
Ola Marine
Ola Marine is El Gouna’s new one-stop shop
that provides everything sea lovers might
need on their boat or at the beach. Aiming to
take boating and outdoor living to a new level,
the Ola Marine team specializes in boating
supplies, marine servicing, and consultancy.
Products on offer include tabletop accessories,
towels, hats, fishing and water fun equipment,
portable coolers and heaters, portable cookers,
outdoor furniture, nautical souvenirs, and
boating supplies such as cabin ware and
embedded furniture and coolers. Open from 10
am to 4 pm and 7-10 pm, Abu Tig Marina North
next to Cozy Casa, +2 011 2023 0303, www.
olamarine.com, also on Facebook
El Gouna Farm
Organic fresh products are available from El
Gouna’s own farm. Meats including chicken,
duck, turkey, goat, and lamb are on offer,
along with olive and jojoba oil. Delivery
service is now provided; call +2 012 2741
1132 or +2 012 2757 3218 (Arabic only) or
address your enquiries and place your orders
by email to mark.michel@elgouna.com
name Grasshopper Café Restaurant in El
Kafr. Culinary delights from a menu written
in German and English are served in a warm
and cozy atmosphere. Shisha water pipes
are available, and free WiFi is provided in
charming surroundings. Open from 10-1 am,
breakfast available, Downtown Kafr, ext 37225
Il Gelato
DINING
Grasshopper Café Restaurant
The restaurant previously known as El
Taybeen has reopened its doors under the
The newly opened Italian ice cream provider
Il Gelato has added a second location to its
Downtown shop and can now also be found
40 feet to 40 metres
not just refined but redefined
princessyachts.com
PRINCESS
V48 OPEN
PRINCESS YACHTS EGYPT
29MB 2 - Abu Tig Marina (1) , El Gouna · Sales: +2 01281594444
in Abu Tig Marina on the ground floor of Turtle’s Inn, below Chez
Chantal Restaurant. Real gelato is produced in front of your eyes using
quality imported ingredients assembled with respect for traditional
Italian recipes. Ten delicious flavors are available, including chocolate,
vanilla, Nutella, hazelnut, gianduja, caramel, wild berry yoghurt,
mango, lemon, and strawberry. Open from 1-11 pm, Abu Tig Marina,
+2 010 9394 0772, also on Facebook
COMMUNITY
Road to the States
The 2015 Road to the States (RTS) was the 3rd edition of the
International Schools Tournament that has been held in El Gouna for
the past three years. The 2015 series saw the attendance of El Gouna’s
founder Samih Sawiris at the final game, during which he supported
his childhood school DEO against Hayah International Academy.
Hayah won 4-2, but the final score was not the most significant
part of the event. The main aim of the tournament was to scout top
players to travel via RTS, providing them the opportunity to win soccer
scholarships in universities in the United States and Canada.
AROUND TOWN
Metropolitan Opera
The Metropolitan Opera live on screen in HD returns to El Gouna at
the Audimax of TU Berlin Campus El Gouna. The new season, which
was launched with a performance of Verdi’s Macbeth, will continue
until April 2015 with a total of 10 performances. Carmen was a great
success and attracted nearly 300 satisfied guests. Coming up in
February and March are Tchaikovsky’s Iolanta on February 14 and
Rossini’s La Donna del Lago on March 14. Tickets are available at the
Information Center or from Customer Services in Downtown El Gouna.
For more information, contact +2 012 0000 1232, +2 012 8818 8252, info@
elgouna.com, www.elgouna.com
EVENT
El Gouna International Squash Open 2015
The fourth El Gouna International Squash Open tournament will
take place from April 2-10, 2015. Elite players from around the
world, including last year’s runner up and current world champion
Mohamed Elshorbagy, will be competing for the 150,000 USD prize.
Last year 56 players participated in the competition as spectators
watched incredible squash in the beautiful setting of the new marina
piazza. Tickets to the event are complimentary, but those who wish
to attend are advised to reserve tickets for the later stages of the
competition, which were oversubscribed last year. More information
will be posted on the event website as it becomes available; visit
www.elgounasquashopen.com, also on Facebook
Feb - Mar 2015 | 45
The Complete Guide to El Gouna
A great advantage of vacationing or living in El Gouna is the myriad of options it offers as a
complete community. Whether you are looking for the ideal place for dinner, the ultimate
sporting experience, or simply where to fill a prescription, this guide will help you know
where to go or who to call. In these pages you’ll find a comprehensive listing of the town’s
services, sports, dining, entertainment and much more.
DIRECTORY
Activities & Sports.........................................................................................................p 48
Banks.............................................................................................................................p 56
Beaches.........................................................................................................................p 48
Boating & Marina Services..........................................................................................p 48
Dine Around .................................................................................................................p 47
Diving.............................................................................................................................p 50
Education.......................................................................................................................p 56
Health & Wellness........................................................................................................p 50
Hotels.............................................................................................................................p 50
Housekeeping...............................................................................................................p 56
Info Center.....................................................................................................................p 56
Internet................ ..........................................................................................................p 56
Kids................................................................................................................................p 52
Laundry.........................................................................................................................p 56
Medical..........................................................................................................................p 58
Nightlife .........................................................................................................................p 52
Real Estate....................................................................................................................p 52
Restaurants...................................................................................................................p 54
Services.........................................................................................................................p 56
Shopping........................................................................................................................p 58
Transportation...............................................................................................................p 59
Travel Agency.................................................................................................................p 59
CALLING EXTENSIONS
From outside El Gouna, please dial +2 065 358 0521 /22/23/24/25/26 for the
operator and ask to be connected to the extension of your choice.
DINE AROUND
Dine Around Restaurants
A unique offering from El Gouna’s hotels. For program specifics and reservations, contact the
Guest Relations agent at your hotel of residence, or call the Info Center / ext 32100.
Arena Inn / ext 150 / International Buffet
Fairway / ext 70014 / International Buffet
Decorated in a tasteful marine style and with a beautiful setting overlooking
the lagoon, Arena Inn sets sail to international and themed buffets.
Experience the Steigenberger touch in an elegant yet cozy restaurant.
Every evening we present a new delicious theme buffet with live
entertainment.
Bleu Bleu / ext 77928 / French
With a top quality chef, the restaurant specializes in French cuisine
served at an ideal location in the Abu Tig Marina. Enjoy a variety of
seafood dishes either inside or on the marina boardwalk.
Captain’s Steakhouse / ext 144 / American Steaks
Morgan’s beach bistro / ext 100 / Paella
Morgan’s beach bistro located in Club Paradisio offers you a variety
of mouthwatering culinary choices in a cozy and casual atmosphere
overlooking the sparkling water of the Red Sea straight from the beach.
Great food, stunning view, a tranquil atmosphere!
If steak is what you like...then you’ve hit the jackpot! The Steak House
offers a romantic setting overlooking the Abu Tig Marina. Great
American style steak dishes are served in a beautiful atmosphere with a
classical high standard of service.
Chez Pascal / ext 188 / 177 / Belgian
Feast on wonderful culinary delights at our specialty Belgian restaurant
and savor mouth-watering cuisine. Enjoy a fantastic meal of fabulous
dishes from all corners of the earth accompanied by soft, live piano
music while you dine.
Dolce Vita / ext 188 / 177 / Italian
Authentic Italian cuisine with sounds, sights and aromas from the
Mediterranian. Come visit us at our two distinct locations at the Rihana
Resort and the Ocean View Hotel.
El Sayadin / ext 120 / Seafood
The renowned a la carte restaurant for Oriental and seafood specialties
boasts a unique location overlooking the crystal blue Red Sea. Spoil
yourself in this breathtaking ambience for all romantic & casual
moments while enjoying the finest delicacies from the menu.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 47
GUIDE
ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS
Aerial Sightseeing
+2 0127 772 5925
Sharm Air gives you the opportunity to feel like
a bird. Contact us to have an unforgettable Arial
sightseeing over El Gouna www.sharmair.com
Kite Family
+2 012 2402 4688 / Zeytouna Beach
Kitesurfing, windsurfing, small catamaran for
three persons. Zeytouna Beach
kitefamilyelgouna@hotmail.com
www.kitefamilyelgouna.com
Kitepower
Art Café
ext 75522
Art Cafe is an art center that provides art
classes and workshops for adults and Kids,
special arty events and Gallery.
Gouna@artcafe-Egypt.com
Aquarium
ext 32408 / Kafr El Gouna
From Spanish Divers and Picassos to sea
horses and crabs, the aquarium will delight
the whole family.
Beach Buggy
ext 34024 / El Balad
Race accross the sand with beach buggy
excursions from Speed Devils.
ext 32506 / Mangroovy Beach
VDWS-recognized kiteboarding school.
info@kitepower-elougna.com
www.kitepower-elgouna.com
Kite People
ext 120 / +2 012 2472 5972 / Moevenpick
IKO-certified kiteboarding school.
info@kitepeople.at, www.kitepeople.at
Liquid Park
+2 0127 692 1754
Water park with inflatable toys, action tower,
climbing wall, slides, and animation team.
Airport lagoon, Facebook Liquid Park El Gouna
Magic Lamp Windsurfing
Moevenpick / ext 120
Beach Volleyball
Enjoy sandy courts on the beach at:
Mangroovy Beach / ext 32260
Zeytouna Beach / ext 140
The Club House / ext 32412
Museum
Crystal Biking
Quad Runners
ext. 34044, +2 0122 886 0955 / Downtown
ext.77976,+2 0127 838 8884-9 / Marina
Zoom around town with scooter & bicycle
rentals. Crystal Bike Center. Opening Hours
from 10 AM to midnight.
crystalbikeelgouna@gmail.com,
www.crystalbike.com
Go for an exciting desert safari, a full moon
trip, or a Bedouin trip on quads for 2 hour
slots, half or full day trips. Guides and BBQ
arrangements. At Peak Safari
Culturama / ext. 32589
enjoy the History of Egypt on an interactive 9
screen panorama. Held every day in English,
French and German language up on request.
Go-Karts / ext 32188
Burn rubber on the carting circuit on the road
between the downtown area and the marina.
Open from 11am-10pm
ext. 32406 / El Balad
Entrance is 10Le per Person. Opening time is
10am-2pm and 5pm-9pm.
Red Sea Zone
+2 0101 110 8081 / Northern Mangroovy
IKO-certified kiteboarding school.
info@redseazone.com, www.redseazone.com
Sail La Vie
+2 0101 410 1915
Located in the front of the Sheraton Hotel. It’s
all about sailing, from renting Surf equipment
until Catamaran Lessons.
Sports & Fun Aquacenter
El Gouna Cable Park - Sliders
ext. 32622, +2 0102 602 2226
Huge Cable Park with 4 different Cables for
beginners, kids and advance.
Wakeboarding, Waterski, Kneeboarding.
Restaurant, Swimming pools, Playground.
www.elgounacable.com
El Gouna Golf Club
ext 32285
An 18-hole championship course with driving
range, chipping and pitching area and
putting greens. Rental services for clubs,
trolleys and carts available. For non-golfers,
check out the Golf Introduction with PGA
professionals every Monday, Wednesday and
Saturday from 3:00-4:00pm in winter/4:005:00pm in summer.
Horseback Riding
Ride horses and camels at:
Yalla Horse Stable / ext 32344
Yalla’s trained staff will help you enjoy their
Arabian cross horses and ponies for children.
Don’t miss their horse-drawn carriage trips!
Kiteboarding Club El Gouna
+2 012 2661 0878 / Buzzha Beach
VDWS-certified kiteboarding school.
elgouna@kiteboarding-club.com
www.kiteboarding-club.com
ext 32241 / Magroovy Beach
Windsurfing, wakeboarding, glass bottom
boat. At the Steigenberger
Stand Up Paddling
+2 011 4111 1978
Lessons, rental, sales, lagoon trips, SUP yoga.
The Club House, Sheraton TGI, Mangroovy
Beach, Liquid Park, call for pickup service.
Club Med / ext 100
Wakeboard and Waterski
ext 37396 / +2 010 0010 2952
The Orange Concept offers a range of
water based activities including waterski,
wakeboard, wakestate, wakesurf, fun tubes,
and more for all levels and ages.
www.theorangeconcept.com
Beaches
Buzzha Beach
+2 012 2741 2100 / North Mangroovy
Only 15-min from downtown. Soak up the
sun and watch kitesurfers. Activities include
billiards, table football, beach volley and a
kids’ playground, all free of charge.
Club 88
ext. 75578, +2 015 0739 3572 /
Abu Tig Marina North
Circular pool overlooking the super yacht
marina, beach, bar and restaurant.
Mahmya
+2 010 0111 9792
Just over an hour from El Gouna, Mahmya
Beach on Giftun Island offers a natural
environment with blue waters awaiting
exploration and a white sandy beach inviting
relaxation. Food, great music, and a fun crowd
make for a memorable exotic escape.
Mangroovy Beach
ext 32260
Enjoy kite and windsurfing, snorkeling,
volleyball and football. Look out for beach
parties and summer BBQs. Shuttle bus Marina
line departs on the hour between 9 am and 5
pm from downtown.
Marina Beach Club
ext 77966
At the heart of Abu Tig, free access with owner’s
card and for guests of participating hotels.
A massage parlor also does henna tattoos.
Restaurant service is provided by Moods and the
beach bar remains lively until late.
Zeytouna Beach
ext 140
Lively and beautiful, Zeytouna Beach is located
on its own island surrounded by the sea and
lagoons. A 400-meter jetty provides access
to deeper water and the coral reef plateau.
Beach Access: Shuttle boat from Downtown
and Sultan Bey, or walking bridges from the
Sheraton and Hill.
Swimming Lessons
Kids Club Sheraton Miramar / ext 82921
Freds Swim Academy / +2 0128 274 1000
Swimming courses for babies, children, teens
and adults.
Swim Trainings
Freds Swim Academy / +2 0128 274 1000
Swim Clubs for all ages and levels at
Steigenberger Golf
www.swimtrainer-egypt.com.
Tennis Club & Academy
ext 32515
Four clay tennis courts, equipment rental,
individual and collective lessons, sparring
partner, weekly single tournament, and tennis
and multisport camp. Next to the go-kart track
BOATING & MARINA SERVICES
Abu Tig Marina Office
ext 32249 / 32011 / +2 065 358 0073 /
+2 012 2766 0185
Beyond the Pyramids
Romantic raft rides around the lagoons, and
speedboats for rent.
El Gouna Boat Service
+2 010 0010 2956 / Abu Tig
Boat service center for all types of repairs,
engine service, anti-fouling, and refits.
Authorized Mercruiser and Mercury dealer
and service center.
Tennis & Squash Courts
Professional tennis and squash courts are
available at:
Fairline
+2 0114 710 0000 / Abu Tig
STYLE - SERENITY - FINE DINING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING WATER SKIING - WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING
- WIND SURFING - WATER SKIING - WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - STYLE SERENITY - FINE DINING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING - WATER
SKIING - WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND
SURFING - WATER SKIING - WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - STYLE - SERENITY
CRUISING
THE RED
SEA SURFING - WATER SKIING - FINE DINING - SCUBA DIVING
- KITE SURFING
- WIND
WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING WATER SKIING -WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - STYLE - SERENITY - FINE DINING
- SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING - WATER SKIING -WAKEBOARDING
- SNORKELLING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING - WATER SKIING
- WAKEBOARDING - SNORKELLING - STYLE - SERENITY - FINE DINING - SCUBA
DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING - WATER SKIING - WAKEBOARDING SNORKELLING - SCUBA DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING - WATER SKIING
DIVING - KITE SURFING - WIND SURFING - WATER SKIING - WAKEBOARDING -
Pure Luxury
m/y Seven Spices
Simply put, M/Y Seven Spices is the most luxuriously appointed 40 meter Super Yacht in the Red Sea. Offering
palatial accommodation with six hand-crafted staterooms, your own personal chef and a professional international
crew ready to look after your every need, M/Y Seven Spices is just what you need for the perfect getaway.
AVAILABLE FOR WEEKLY & DAILY CHARTERS
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Available for private charters, corporate events, family holidays
& special occasions or weddings - M/Y Seven Spices has it all!
All-inclusive price includes all activities, meals & snacks and non-alcoholic beverages (alcohol provided at extra cost). Maximum number
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For more information and price details:
For more information
and price details:Tel: +20 (0) 1200 202 635
E-Mail: contact@luxurymotoryachts.com
www.sevenspices.com
E-Mail: contact@luxurymotoryachts.com
www.sevenspices.com
Tel: +20 (0) 1200 202 635
Feb - Mar 2015 | 49
GUIDE
Fairline yachts sales and after-sales support
with on-site service center.
Fantasia Yacht Service
+2 0122 218 4631, 0127 6 32 30 36
fantasia60@hotmail.com
info@fantasia-eg.com / www.fantasia-eg.com
Lodos Marine
ext 77965 / Abu Tig
Yachting equipment and supplies.
Euro Divers
Chinese Massage by Lin
ext 120 / Moevenpick
Office: 8137 Tel:+20 1002592123
Instruction: PADI. Snorkeling Trips. Language
Arabic, English, French, Spanish & German.
ext 75532 / +201006837396
Abu Tig North
ext 140 and 32414 / Kafr El Gouna
Orca Dive Club
Lax Beauty Center
ext 77739 / Abu Tig
Instruction: PADI, CMAS-VDST, ProNRC for
Nitrox, and IANTD for closed rebreather Buddy
Evolution. Snorkeling. Languages: German,
English,French, and Arabic. Turtle’s Inn.
ext 75501 / Abu Tig North
Marine Centre International
+201278897771 / Abu Tig Marina
www.marinecentreint.com
National Yachts Company
ext 75523 / Abu Tig
Sea Ray and Azimut yachts dealership.
Finger Secret Massage
Look at Me
ext 32340 / Tamr Henna
Moevenpick Salon
TGI Diving
ext 110 / Sheraton
Instruction: PADI. Features a boat suitable for
disabled divers; all boats depart from the dive
center’s own jetty. Snorkeling, pedalos and
canoes.Languages: English, French, German,
Italian, Dutch, and Arabic.
ext 120
Nefertari
ext 110 / Sheraton
Tamr Henna Salon
North basin office
ext 75571 / 75573
Keeps a list of private and commercial charter
boats in El Gouna. www.abutig-marina.com
Ocean Diva Catamaran Sailing Cruises
ext 37396 / Abydos Marina and hotels
Day cruises, champagne cruises, private
cruises, and party cruises.
The Dive Connection
Thai Scissors
ext 199 / Panorama Bungalows
Instruction: PADI, CMAS-VDST, and TDI for
advanced technical diving, trimix, semi-closed
rebreathers Draeger Dolphin and Ray, and
closed circuit rebreathers Buddy Evolution and
Submatix. Snorkeling. Languages: English,
German, French, Dutch, and Arabic.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
HOTELS
6 Stars
Thanita Massage
ext 32412 / Club House, Kafr
TTC Ocean View
ext 177
Princess Yachts
+2 011 4001 1667 / Abu Tig
Princess yachts sales and after-sales services.
Sunseeker
ext 77961 / Abu Tig
Sells a range of luxury yachts and sports crafts.
Yacht Club, North Basin
ext 75585
DIVING CENTERS
Angsana Spa
A subsidiary of the Banyan Tree Group,
Angsana Spa boasts two outlets in El Gouna.
Moevenpick
Steigenberger
ext 120
t +2 065 354 4501/358 0120
ext 130
Health Clubs
Steigenberger Golf Resort
Finger Secret Spa Beauty and Fitness
ext 130
t +2 065 358 0140/1/2/3/4
LAX Gymnasium & Lounge
Moevenpick
ext 122
t +2 065 358 0063
Steigenberger
ext 130
TTC Ocean View
ext 177
TTC Rihana
Fanadir
ext 170
+2 065 358 0076
Mosaique
ext 180
t +2 065 358 0077
ext 188
Panorama Bungalows
Panorama Bungalows
ext 199
+2 065 358 0052/3
ext 199
Beauty Salons
Mangroovy Massage
Classic
Steigenberger / ext 130
Abu Tig / ext 77918
Captain’s Inn
ext 144 / Abu Tig
ext 100
t +2 065 354 7934/5/6/7/8/9
Dawar El Omda
Easy Divers Academy
ext 77975 / TTC Ocean View
Instruction: PADI and SDI for Scubility program
for impaired divers with a boat suitable for
disabled divers. snorkeling. Languages: English,
German, French, Dutch, Italian, and Arabic.
Club Paradisio
Sheraton
Dive Trek
Emperor Divers
4 Stars
ext 120
ext 110
ext 32327 / TTC Rihana
Instruction: PADI and CMAS-FFESSM. Boat
available for disabled divers and the only dive
center licensed to visit the Thistlegorm. Night
dives available. Snorkeling, glass bottom boat.
Languages: Dutch, French, German, English,
and Arabic.
ext 110
t +2 065 354 5606
ext 100
Coraya Divers
ext 32381 / Sultan Bey
Instruction: PADI and CMAS-FFESSM.
Snorkeling. Languages: French, English,
and German.
Sheraton Miramar
Club Med
ext.32414 and 140 / Kafr El Gouna
ext 100 / Club Paradisio
5 Stars
Movenpick Resort & Spa
Colona Dive Center
ext 188 / TTC Rihana
Instruction: PADI. Snorkeling. Languages:
Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, English,
Portuguese, Italian, and Russian.
ext 75620
ext 120
Blue Brothers
ext 77975 / TTC Ocean View
Instruction: PADI, CMAS-Barracuda, and ProNRC.
Night dives available. Snorkeling. Languages:
German, English, and Arabic.
La Maison Bleue
Sultan Bey
ext 140
t +2 065 354 5600/2/3/4
TTC Ocean View
ext 177
t +2 065 358 0350/1/2/3/9
TTC Rihana Resort
ext 188
+2 065 358 0025/6/7/8/9
Feb - Mar 2015 | 51
GUIDE
TTC Rihana Inn
ext 188
+2 065 358 0025/6/7/8/9
3 stars
Ali Pasha
creative activities, and birthday parties.
Located next to Go-Karts.
Activities
Art Café
Arena Inn
Ext 75522
Art Cafe is an art center that provides art
classes and workshops for kids and adults as
well, arty birthdays and school trips.
Gouna@artcafe-Egypt.com
ext 150
t +2 065 358 0078
Island Adventure
ext 133
t +2 065 358 0088
Captin’s Inn
ext 144
t +2 065 358 0170
ext 140
Take the jetty to Zeytuna Island for a day of
snorkeling.
Marina Street Festival
ext 32100
Don’t miss the biweekly party where guest
DJs and live bands guarantee an outdoor
extravaganza of fun. Every Monday and Friday
from 8pm (cancelled during winter season).
Moods
ext 77966 / Abu Tig
Lounge bar, oriental and international cuisine
and cocktails by the boats or on the beach with
great alcohol at good prices! Beach parties
every Friday night during the summer.
Orient
International Restaurant & Bar
Mini Golf
Turtle’s Inn
ext 155
t +2 065 358 0171
KIDS
Hotel Activity Clubs For Kids
Arena Inn
ext 150
Children’s activities and playground facilities.
Ages: 0-6
Moevenpick
ext 120
Interactive sports and games both in the water
and outdoors. 10:00-16:45 Thursday off. Only
for in house guests.
Rihana Trixie Kids Club
ext 188
Age-appropriate programs and themed days
include Indian day, Party day, Pirates day and
Handcrafts day. 10:00-12:00 and 14:00-17:00
ext 77012
Try your luck at pint-sized golf in the marina.
NIGHTLIFE
ext 32326 / Abu Tig
Trendy bar and eatery; one of the marina’s
hotspots! DJ music and regular themes keep
the fun going.
Barten
Smugglers
ext 77903 / Abu Tig
Egypt’s smallest bar with its modern, funky
decor and exciting atmosphere
ext 77927 / Abu Tig
The vibe is classic English pub meets Indiana
Jones where Sussex-native Richard Boys
serves up drinks.
Beach Party
Enjoy BBQ, bonfires, and great music every
Sun and Wed from 10:30pm.
Café Vienna
ext 120 / Moevenpick Hill
Elegant lounge and piano bar for special
events and conferences. Prior reservation is
required.
Crooners Club
ext 77994 / +20 120 0385538 / Abu Tig
Jazz and Lounge bar. Enjoy a different
program every night.
Steigenberger
ext 130
Kid’s Club, playground, activities and games
indoor and outside. Ages 5-12 years old.
10:00-17:00. Only for inhouse guests.
HoneyBee Nursery
ext 32231 / El Bustan
Mini Kids Academy
ext 32225 / Downtown
Playtime
Cheeky Monkeys
ext 77012 / Abu Tig
An indoor air-conditioned playground with
trampoline, slides, and swings as well as
outdoor mini-golf, football, and picnic area.
Next to Ali Pasha, open daily from 12-9pm.
Day use: 40 LE per child. Infants under
9 months enter free with one paying child.
Tambel Irish Pub
Cold beer, hot music, and good mezzeh.
Selection of liquors including famous Irish
whiskey and Irish cream.
Tides Lounge Bar
Indoor seating or relax in an open Bedouin
tent. Music, appetizers and cocktails.
REAL ESTATE
DuPort Pool Club
Ancient Sands Resort
ext 177 / Ocean View
The ultimate lounge experience. Cool tunes,
private lounge beds, swimming pool, and
delicious food. DJ Party every Thursday.
ext 77870 / +2 0100 082 0810 / Abu Tig
enquiries@ancientsandsresort.com, www.
ancientsandsresort.com
Commercial Property
Free entrance for big time blockbusters at
the open air theatre. Movie showing every
Thursday at 8:30pm, during winter the time
changes to 7:30pm.
Little Gounies
Oriental show and entertainment every Sunday
and Thursday from 9:30pm (cancelled during
winter season).
Dunes
El Gouna Cinema
Nurseries
Tamr Henna Square Event
ext 144 / Abu Tig
Billiard tables available until 9 pm at Captain’s
Inn Hotel.
Sheraton
ext 110
Complete program includes water polo, diving,
beach games, balloon games and activities
coordinated by the animation team.
10:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00
Peanuts
Orascom Housing, orascom.housing@elgouna.com
La Casa Di Lialina
OHD Authorized Sales Agent
El Gouna Oasis
ext 32100
A natural grove of date palms with roofed huts,
Bedouin tents, and gardens. Buffet dinner and
oriental show every Wednesday from 7pm.
Jobos’ Sports Bar & Restaurant
ext 32127
Live Music every Monday.
El Gouna Immobilien
ext 77794 / +2 012 2160 9339
ralf.knippschild@elgouna-immobilien.com
El Gouna Real Estate
Tamr Henna / ext 32194
Abu Tig / ext 32499 / +2 0111 173 4222
enquiries@elgouna-realestate.com
Real Estate Office (OHD)
Kafr El Gouna Party
ext 32100
A fantastic party with live special
entertainment every Saturday and Tuesday
from 8pm (cancelled during winter season).
Orascom Sales Office, marketing.realestate@
orascomhd.com
Downtown Kafr / ext 32005 / 32041
Abu Tig Marina / ext 77939
Resale, Rental & Property Management
Kojak Kids Club
Aurora
ext 32257
This facility comprises outdoor playground
and indoor play rooms for amusement games,
ext 77001 / Abu Tig
Mixed DJ music; Saturdays 80s and 90s hits
located on the island opposite Bleu Bleu.
El Gouna Prime Living
Feb - Mar 2015 | 53
GUIDE
Holidayhome-Resea
Mobil +2 012 2420 0800
El Gouna Vacation Rentals
ext 32552 / Abu Tig
Fulllstop Rentals and Management
Ceviche
La Piscina
Tapas bar.
ext 110 / Sheraton
Exclusive Atmosphere around the pool with
live music and entertainment.
Chez Chantal
ext 155 / Abu Tig
Belgian & international foods. Turtle’s Inn rooftop.
Chez Pascal
Interhome
ext 32513 / Abu Tig
Magic Property Management
Rihana / ext 188
Ocean View / ext 177
Specialty Belgian restaurant with mouthwatering cuisine. Live piano music.
Cedars
Orascom
Lebanese specialties along with delicious
snacks and salads.
Scarab Club
+2 011 4141 1111 / Abu Tig
www.scarab-club.com
RESTAURANTS
3agina
Offering a wide variety of Pizza, mana2eesh
sweet & sour crepes, along with delicious
pancakes & waffles...
7th Star Restaurant
ext 77972 / Abu Tig
Special breakfast, superb pastries, coffees,
international menu, and fondue.
Abou El Sid
Authentic Egyptian food served in old Cairo
style atmosphere.
Art Village Café
Open space arabian atmosphere. Work on your
art or relax with a shisha or drink.
Dolce Vita
Rihana Resort / ext 188
Ocean View Hotel / ext 177
Enjoy the real flavor of Italian pizzas and pastas.
Drumsticks
ext 77907 / Abu Tig
Chicken wings and salad bar, as well as
crêpes.
ext 130 / Golf Club
Exclusive menu inspired by Mediterranean
flavors. First class service in a glamorous
ambiance.
La Scala
ext 77933 / Abu Tig
Pamper yourself with high international
cuisine in a classy atmosphere.
Le Deauville
ext 77902 / Abu Tig
Elegant French cuisine from a chef that keeps
the offerings seasonal and varied.
Le Garage
ext 77963 / Abu Tig
German-Swiss restaurant serving gourmet
burgers, salads, and shakes.
Maison Thomas
El Bustan Café
ext 77906 / Abu Tig
Signature sandwiches, salads, pizzas in great
ambiance.
ext 807-2038 / El Bustan
Egyptian coffee shop and shisha bar.
Mamma Mia
El Sayadin
ext 32260 / Abu Tig Marina
Boutique Restaurant
Fantastic Oriental and seafood specialties with
a unique location overlooking the sea.
Mamounia
ext 77855 / Abu Tig
Moroccan cuisine in an authentic atmosphere.
Grasshopper
Assortment of sandwiches, pasta, pizza, and
special salads.
Mangroovy Beach Club
ext 32260 / Mangroovy
Scenic beach bar and restaurant. Beach party
every Sun and Wed. Bedouin tent with shisha.
Fat Boys
Oriental and international food and sports bar
Athena Greek Taverna
ext 32429 / Balad
Greek specialties.
La Rotisserie
Fairways
Maritim Restaurant
ext 77971 / Abu Tig
Seafood and Scandinavian specialties served
in a unique atmosphere overlooking the sea.
Bella Italia
ext 130 / Steigenberger
Elegant yet cozy with daily buffet themes and
uniquely Egyptian fare.
ext 77912 / Abu Tig
Authentic Italian pizzas, pastas and salads.
Fish Market
Steamed and fried dim sum and main courses
to take away.
Benzini Juice Bar
Catch of the day and Alexandrian-style seafood.
Moods Restaurant and Beach Club
Healthy, freshly-squeezed fruit juices and
smoothies.
Bleu Bleu
ext 77928 / Abu Tig
Well known for its delicious platters served on
a romantic terrace facing the sea.
Bua Khao
Thai food in a fresh, open tropical atmosphere.
Also offers a wide assortment of seafood
dishes.
Hedra
International & seafood cuisine served all day.
Snacks and sandwiches.
Il Limone
Mediterranean specialties with starter buffet
and main courses served at the table.
Golden Chicken
ext 34042, or 0122 875 57 34
Delivers to your home! Order one day prior to
reserve your chicken.
Bob Hot Dogs
Abu Tig Marina
The hotest dogs and coolest drinks.
Buzzha Beach
+2 012 2884 2839 / North Mangroovy
El Gouna’s only wood-fire pizza oven. Theme
evenings include Italian & BBQ.
Jobo’s Sports Bar
International and Scandinavian cuisine and
live sports events.
ext 77966 / Abu Tig
All-in-one international and typical Egyptian
food and cocktail bar overlooking the beach.
Mori Sushi
ext 75536
Wide variety of sushi, maki, rolls, sashimi, and
combination platters.
Nathan’s
100% all-beef chili, cheese hotdogs, chicken
sandwiches and all-American steak sandwiches.
Orient 1001
ext 110 / Sheraton
Lebanese-Egyptian food in an authentic
Oriental atmosphere with live bread making.
Orient Restaurant
ext 32416 / kafr
Kan Zaman
Typical Egyptian Restaurant.
Captain’s Steakhouse
ext 144 / Abu Tig
American-style steak dishes in a great
atmosphere at Captain’s Inn on the marina
boardwalk.
Mini Saigon
La Luna
Italian cuisine with homemade pasta and pizza.
Oriental Grill
Oriental atmosphere sets the mood for
mezzeh, barbecue and oriental pastries.
Feb - Mar 2015 | 55
GUIDE
Pier 88
Zomba
Financial
+2 012 8410 8820 / Abu Tig
Champagne bar and seasonal European menu
on a floating barge.
Authentic Egyptian cuisine at great prices.
Home delivery available. Hours: 6am-3am.
Note: Most banks are closed Fri & Sat
Puddleduck
The German Hotel School Catering Service
ext 32123 / kafr
+2012 7905 3950
Sunday through Thursday from 08:30 to 15:00
e-mail:info-gouna@orascom-education.com
Arab African International Bank
Raz
Bank Audi
CIB
Saudi and Gulf food, Enjoy a delicious cocktail
or a perfect dinner.
SERVICES
Marina / ext 77970
Saigon
Communication
Credit Agricole
ext 77854 / Abu Tig
This family-run Vietnamese restaurant’s menu
features home-grown vegetables and herbs
amongst other exotic delicacies.
www.elgounamag.com
editor@elgounamag.com
advertising@elgounamag.com
Fish Club
Selection of starters, as well as fish and meat
main courses.
Tamr Henna Food Court
Oriental food, kebab, pizzas, fresh juice, and
fetir, among other tasty items.
Tandoor
ext 133 / Abu Tig
Tandoori & Mughalai specialties of chicken, meats,
and seafood at the only authentic Indian restaurant.
Magazine
HSBC
ext 32421/22 / Abu Tig
Misr Bank
Radio
+2 065 358 0202 / Tamr Henna
www.romolo.com/stream.htm
Event Planning
Housekeeping
X-Nation.
Better Life
Post Office
Best Service
Hours: 9am-2pm, closed Friday.
Orascom
Community
Church
Information
The Club House
Irresistible pizzas, pasta and salads in a lively
atmosphere and popular meeting place.
El Gouna Farm
Customer Services (OHD)
ext 32570
For organic produce, open 09:00 to 16:00 daily.
ext 34455 / 34466 / El Balad
Homeowner concerns and Owner’s Cards.
customer.services@elgouna.com
Gas Station
Info Center
ext 32829 / El Bustan
9am-11pm
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
ext 77852 / Abu Tig
All sorts of coffee specialties are to be had,
together with pastries and snacks.
Mosque
The Snack Shack
Sandwiches, salads and desserts, takeaway
and delivery available.
ext 32389 / Behind Hospital
Behind Hospital
Telephone, to connect to the
El Gouna Operator:
Nature Park
From inside El Gouna / 0
From outside El Gouna dial:
+2 065 358 0521 /22/23/24/25/26
The Smokery
ext 32251
Water Treatment Systems
ext 75585/Yacht Club, Marina
Every kind of Salmon you’ve ever dreamt about.
Recycling Factory
+2 012 2399 2774
Turkish House Restaurant
Turkish Cuisine.
Security 24/7
ext 32060 / 32068 / El Balad
essam.ahmed@elgouna.com
Upstairs
A fine dining experience in an elegant setting.
Education
AUC Field Center
Vienna Café Servus
Varieties of coffee, cappuccino, lattes and
chocolate. Austrian specialties, pastries, fresh
salads and sandwiches.
ext 34401
www.aucegypt.edu
El Gouna International School
www.elgounaschool.net
Waves
ext 110 / Sheraton
International seafood delicacies in an
exclusive atmosphere featuring live music
around the pool. Seafood BBQ on Saturday.
El Gouna Technical Nursing Institute
ext 32582
German Hotel School
White Elephant
Thai specialties include curry dishes, stir-fried
meat and seafood.
Library
ext 32589
Open to the public Sat-Fri, 10 am to 10 pm;
entrance 1 Euro. Located next to the hospital.
Zia Amelia
Home made, real Italian food, regional
specialities, warm atmosphere: be pampered
with the best selection of Italian cuisine and
friendly service.
Technische Universität Berlin
ext 8400
www.campus-elgouna.tu-berlin.de
Internet
Link Zone
ext 600
DSL service provider
Orascom Net
Internet café 2-11 pm / ext 77930
Tech services 9am-4:30pm / 32283 / 32198
ProLink
ext 77000 / Abu Tig
Laundry
El Gouna Laundry
Isis Laundry
Marlina
Tamr Henna Laundry
Medical
Abu Tig Pharmacy
The Smokery, Yacht Club, New Marina | Ext. No : 75585 | Mobile: +2 0120 544 4490
Email: management@thesmokery.net | Website: www.thesmokery.net
TheSmokeryEg
The Smokery
Feb - Mar 2015 | 57
GUIDE
Art Life
Elegant Sportswear
Art Of Form
Geno
Abu Tig
ext 32073
9am-2pm, 6pm-9pm
B.Tech
High Quality
Hospital
Carrier
IQ Casual Wear
ext 32222 / 32201 / 32202
ext 32128 / Abu Tig
Tamr Henna Pharmacy
Cookit Kitchen Supplies
Italian Fashion
ext 32600
Open 24 hours
ext 77901 / Abu Tig
Cotton & Cotton
Jeans House
ext 32171- 012 2805 4878 / Tamr Henna
ext 77920
10am-12am
Emergency
ext 111
Hospital Pharmacy
SHOPPING
Cozy Casa
Kipling
Ethnic
ext 75561 / Abu Tig
ext 77973 / Abu Tig
Africano
Delight
Lougeen
ext 77923 / Abu Tig
ext 77941 / Abu Tig
Bedouin House
El Dar
Madian
El Balad
Beit Sitti cottons
Mango
Finally Home
Bollywood
ext 77851 / Abu Tig
Maya
Inside Out
ext 77921 / Abu Tig
ext 77968 / Abu Tig
Egyptian Handcrafts
Nervana
Karibe
ext 75506 / Abu Tig
El Beit El Noubi
Norma J
Lightplan
ext 77909 / Abu Tig
ext 33038
El Nol
Queeny Boutique
ext 77919 / Marina
Marina Garden
El Pasha Kaftan
Nancy House
Gifts
Print Shop
ext 77917 / Abu Tig
ext 32496 / Abu Tig
Quicksilver
Sabaya
Ambiente
Surf Shop
Nile Kitchen
ext 77914 / Abu Tig
ext 32393 / Hill Parking
Art Village
T-Shirt Shop
Nile Water
ext 75542 / Abu Tig
Dandana
ext 32313 / Khayameya
Vilebrequin
Safarkhan Art
ext 75565 / Abu Tig
ext 77934 / Abu Tig
Dolphin
Groceries & Bakeries
ext 77964 / Abu Tig
Fashion
Eben El Balad
Ainedter Boutique
ext 77977 / Abu Tig
Hippie
Air Marin
Marina Piazza, North Basin
ext 77853 / Abu Tig
Khan El Gouna
Aisha
Abu Tig / ext 77777
Tamr Henna / ext 32181
Kipling
Casual Club
Cheers
ext 77973 / Abu Tig
ext 75550 / Abu Tig
ext 32587 / Industrial Zone
Local alcoholic drinks with delivery.
Oops
Casual Wear
Wannas Gifts
Cotton Land
ext 77922 / Abu Tig
Drinkies
Home Decor, Accessories,
& Appliances
Cotton T-Shirt
Local alcoholic drinks with delivery.
7th Star Bakery
ext 77931 / Abu Tig
Abu Amer
Best Way
Cheers
Ebaid
El Mohandes
Valentino Silver
El Ezba
Wannas Jeweler
ext 77922 / Abu Tig
Fish Market
Souvenirs
Guergues
ext 38784 / +2 012 2734 0166
Car and limousine rental, private taxi service.
Segtours
Abu Tig Marina ext 77989 / +2 012 8821 9026
or +2 011 1099 3880
Segway tours around El Gouna.
Shuttle Bus & Boat
01015482080 / El Balad /Abu Tig
Khan El Khalili
Night Shop
The Butchery
Limousine & Taxi
ext 32293 / Abu Tig
Jasmine Papyrus
Spices
Within El Gouna
Isis Leather
Il gelato
TRANSPORTATION
ext 32100
Tickets available at the Info Center, hotels’
front desk, Kafr boat jetty, at sales points
around El Gouna, or with bus drivers. Daily
ticket: 5 LE; Weekly
ticket: 20 LE.
New Khan El Khalili
Zanzibar Gourmet
ext 77959 / Turtles Inn
Shisha Palace
Tok-Tok
5 LE per person per way.
Downtown / ext 32337 / 32338
Abu Tig Marina / ext 72338
El Bustan / ext 807 2338 / +2 0128 200 0402
Hand Made
El Warda Fine Arts
Tut Papyrus
Tuc Tuc
Fine Arts
Other
ext 77222 / +2 0112 999 9144 / Abu Tig
5 LE per person per way.
(max. 3 passengers)
Alam Writing Materials
Around El Gouna
El Balad
Glass Style
ext 77943 / Abu Tig
Bus to Hurghada
Any Call
Lana Leather
Book Shop
Leather Handmade
ext 77969 / Abu Tig
ext 32100
Buses leave every 20 min (00, 20, 40 min after the
hour). Departure from El Gouna between 07:00
and midnight. Departure from Hurghada (Dahar)
between 06:20 and 00:00. LE 5 per person per
way, tickets may be bought on the bus.
Bookshop Farid Atteia
Malaika
Bus Service to Cairo
Deep Blue
El Gouna Transportation Company
ext 77950 / Abu Tig
ext 77929 / Abu Tig
O. Mamouhé
Jewelry
ext 32287 / +2 02 2574 1533
First Class service LE 110 per person per
way, VIP service LE 85 per person per way.
EG to Cairo: 1pm (VIP), 4:30pm (First). Cairo
to EG: 7am (VIP),10pm (first). Runs from
Tahir Square and Nasr City station in Cairo.
Tickets must be bought in advance.
Black Diamond
Fun Days Excursions
High Jet Company
Citizen
Green Fingers
El Fayrouz
La Beauté
High Style
Lotus Perfumes
ext 34770 / Tamer Henna & Abu Tig
ext 34555
First Class service LE 85 per person per
way Leaving from Downtown. VIP service LE
55 per person per way leaving in the front
of the Bustan Gate. EG to Cairo: 9:30am
(First), 1:30pm (first), 11:30am (VIP), 12(VIP),
2pm(VIP), 5pm(VIP). Cairo to EG: 8am (first),
10am (VIP), 11am (VIP), 12 am(VIP), 3pm(VIP),
4pm (VIP).runs from Ahmed Helmy and Nasr
City station in Cairo. Tickets must be bought
in advance.
Jewellux
Phone Appliances
ext 144 / Abu Tig
Travel Agency
Jasmine Jeweler
Samir and Ali
Pro Tours
opening hours 10:00 to 22:00
Arranges local excursions within Egypt
and handles your international travel
arrangements. For packages and tailored
tours and excursions / ext 32175 / 6
Bookings also through Info Center / ext 32100
ext 77904 / Abu Tig
Edrees
Trend
El Balad
Exc. DVD & Video
Kiranos
San Bola Embroidery
Saint George
ext 32135 / Kafr
St Paul Book Shop
Santa Maria
Abu Tig
Shiekh Mounir
ext 32112 / Steigenberger, Sheraton,
Ocean View, Kafr, El Balad
Feb - Mar 2015 | 59
GUIDE

Life as it should be

Transcription

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